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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
  
THAILAND  
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 24 AND 26 NOVEMBER 2020  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Mrs Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later 
than 8 January 2021 . 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
THAÏLANDE  
PROJET DE COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 24 ET 26 NOVEMBRE 2020  
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Mme Barbara Blanquart: barbara. blanquart@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 8 janvier 2021  au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
TAILANDIA  
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA  
LOS DÍAS 24 Y 26 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2020  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría (Sr a. Barbara Blanquart: 
barbara.blanquart@wto.org , o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 8 de enero de 2021  las 
correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
_______________  
 
 
  
 
* In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
THAILAND  
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Harald Aspelund  (Iceland)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ ......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THAILAND  ................................ .. 5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ...............  9 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ .......................  12 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THAILAND AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ..... 55 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ ........................  60 
7  ADOPTION OF TPRB'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2020  ................................ ....................  62 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Thailand are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/400/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The eighth Trade Policy Review of Thailand was held on 24 and 26 November 2020. The 
Chairperson, H.E.  Mr. Harald Aspelund (Iceland), welcomed the delegation of Thailand, headed by 
Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote, Minister, Permanent Mission of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO 
(Bangkok Office), who participated online from Bangkok; H.E. Ambassador S unanta Kangvalkulkij, 
Permanent Representative of Thailand to the WTO; and the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Silvia Elena 
Alfaro Espinosa (Peru).  
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefited 
from the Interpre fy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Membership, in 
particular of Thai officials who could not make the journey from Bangkok given the current 
circumstances.  
1.3.  The Chairperson took this opportunity to remind Members that, as indic ated in the addendum 
to the airgram for this meeting (WTO/AIR/TPR/98/Add.1, distributed on 15 October 2020), at the 
end of the second day, the TPRB would be invited to adopt its Annual Report for 2020.  
1.4.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs, and the main elements of procedure for the 
meeting. The report by Thailand was contained in document WT/TPR/G/400 and that of the WTO 
Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/400.  
1.5.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: Hong 
Kong, China; Peru; Israel; Australia; Norway; Canada; Chile; United States; China; United Kingdom; 
Korea, Republic of; European Union; Myanmar; Chinese Taipei; Singapore; Ukraine; Japan; India; 
Colombia; Brazil; and Turkey. The following delegations submitt ed written questions after the 
deadline: Switzerland; Russian Federation; Malaysia; New Zealand; Philippines; Ecuador; and 
Mexico.  
1.6.  At the time of its previous Review in 2015, Members had commended Thailand for its strong 
macro -economic fundamentals and app ropriate policy mix that had helped maintain financial stability 
and ensure the resilience of its outward -oriented economy. However, Members had also encouraged 
Thailand to pursue structural reforms in areas such as taxation, competition policy, state -owne d 
enterprises and transparency, and removing existing FDI restrictions. Actions to improve transport 
infrastructure, focus on a digital economy, and move manufacturing capacity up the value chain had 
also been suggested in order to promote growth.  
1.7.  The Chai rperson focused on developments since its previous Review. According to the 
Secretariat Report, after three years of solid growth, in 2019, the Thai economy entered a downturn 
due mainly to the global economic slowdown and international trade tensions, lea ding to a 
contraction in exports, private investment and consumption. In addition, the economy continued to 
face structural challenges, such as low levels of public and private investment, income and regional 
disparities, and the need to complete fiscal re form and address labour market problems. In 2020, 
the COVID -19 pandemic exacerbated the problems facing the economy. To mitigate the economic 
effects of the pandemic, the Government implemented monetary and fiscal policy measures, through 
a three -stage rel ief package worth 14% of GDP.  
1.8.  Regarding trade policies, Thailand improved its customs regime and adopted a new Customs 
Act during the review period. The tariff structure appeared to remain relatively complex, and 
Thailand maintained a myriad of tax and non -tax investment incentives schemes. New legislation on 
government procurement was enacted to increase transparency, but preferences were still given to 
certain domestic suppliers. Thailand also adopted a new Trade Competition Act in 2017 covering for 
the first time, SOEs and other public entities. However, many products and services remained 
subject to price controls. Concerning intellectual property, the Trademark Act was amended to 
provide for the registration of sound marks, and the Copyright Act and the  Computer Crime Act were 
amended to better address online IP infringement. However, concerns regarding certain enforcement 
issues remain. Agriculture received more trade protection than the rest of the economy and, in 
services, while regulatory regimes had  been modernized, caps on FDI are in place in several 
subsectors.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  1.9.  The Government Report highlights various economic plans, such as the 20 -Year National 
Strategy (2018 -37), the Twelfth National Economic and Social Development Plan (2017 -21), 
Thailand 4.0, a nd the Seven -Year Investment Promotion strategy (2015 -21). The Report also 
indicates that the Government set "10 Targeted Industries" to be promoted. Members wished to 
know more about these policies through their discussions.  
1.10.   A quick survey of the advance questions submitted for this Review showed the wide range of 
topics of interest to Members regarding Thailand's trade and investment regimes, including its 
participation in regional trade agreements, its investment regime, including foreign business 
licens ing requirements, customs procedures and trade facilitation, its use of trade measures such as 
import licensing, standards and technical regulations, SPS measures, and the protection of 
intellectual property rights.  
1.11.   In total, Thailand received 622 advance written questions from 29 delegations for this Review, 
covering a broad range of topics. Of the 450 advance written questions submitted before the deadline 
of 20 October 2020, Thailand had responded to the majority before noon on 23 November 2020. 
However, there were several outstanding replies to advance questions submitted by Members within 
the established deadline, and the Chairperson looked forward to hearing Thailand's updates on these 
issues.  
1.12.   This meeting was a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of interest 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilateral trading system. It was also an opportune 
moment for Thailand to update the Membership on the impact of COVID -19 on its economy, and 
measures it had taken in  response. The Chairperson looked forward to a fruitful exchange.  
1.13.   The Chairperson closed his introductory remarks by wishing Thailand a very successful eighth 
Trade Policy Review.  
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THAILAND (MR. RACHAVITCH 
PIYAPR AMOTE)  
2.1.  Good morning excellencies and distinguished guests. On behalf of the Royal Thai Government, 
it is my great honour and pleasure to be here today. This is the 8th Trade Policy Review of Thailand 
and the first time for Thailand to have a virtual TPR me eting. Please allow me to introduce the 
agencies, the Thai delegation in Bangkok today. We have around a dozen line agencies with us in 
Bangkok, comprising representatives from the Department of Trade Negotiations, the Department 
of Intellectual Property, the Department of International Trade Promotion, and the Department of 
Internal Trade. We also have representatives from the Export -Import Bangkok Thailand, the Office 
of Insurance Commission, the Customs Department, the Physical Policy Office, the Board o f 
Investment of Thailand, the National Bureau of Agriculture Commodity and Food Standards, and the 
Department of Livestock Development.  
2.2.  First and foremost, I would like to thank the WTO Secretariat for a thorough report of Thailand's 
trade policy and their  hard work during unprecedented challenges of COVID -19 leading up to this 
meeting. I also would like to thank our discussant, Ambassador Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa of Peru, 
for taking the time to participate in this meeting.  
2.3.   In this trade policy review , Thailand has received more than 500 questions from 29 Members. 
We sincerely thank the Members for showing their interests in Thailand 's trade policy. In this 
connection, our agencies have tried their best to respond to those questions in writing. So far,  we 
have responded to 414 questions already. Please be assured that we will answer all of them as soon 
as we could.  
Economic Environment (2015 –2019)  
2.4.  During the past five years (2015 –2019), Thailand has experienced with several important 
changes. The passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 2016 was a great loss to all Thais. 
Since the passing of our beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thailand ha s been under the reign of His 
Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun. In 2017, Thailand adopted a new 
Constitution. And in 2019, we had the general election and a new Government was formed.  
2.5.  Early in 2020, our world was hit by the novel C OVID -19 pandemic. Thailand was the first 
country with a COVID -19 case outside of China and we have put our best efforts to control the 
spread of the virus. So far, Thailand has less than 4,000 cases and is the first country to review our 
health system and our success in COVID -19 management through an Intra Action Review, developed 
by World Health Organization.  
2.6.  Although we have successfully controlled the spread of the virus, our economy, like many other 
Members, has been hit hard by the pandemic. The Natio nal Economic and Social Development 
Council projected that the Thai economy will contract by 6% this year, mainly because of the drop 
of export and private consumption which accounts for 53% and 54% of Thailand 's GDP respectively. 
Total investment is also expected to decrease by 3.2%. In terms of job market, our unemployment 
rate is still comparatively low at 1.9%.  
2.7.  Next year Thai economy is expected to expand approximately 3.5% to 4.5%, driven by the 
increases of private consumption at 2.4%, government cons umption at 4.7%, total investment at 
6.6%, and export at 4.2%.  
2.8.  To mitigate the adverse effects of the pandemic, the Government has launched a 3 phase 
COVID -19 Relief Package comprising monetary and fiscal policies, to urgently help vulnerable people 
affected from the lockdown and business closure particularly informal workers, increase liquidity 
especially for SMEs, and stimulate domestic consumption. The Government has organised 
occupational training and community activities to improve skills of the recen t graduates looking for 
jobs. The policies have satisfactory result as our economy has shown better performance in Q3/2020 
compared to the previous quarter. The Government continues its work to bring our economy back 
to normalcy as soon as possible.  
2.9.  In 202 1, Thailand will focus on "Resilience ", emphasizing on strengthening the local economy 
and SMEs and to decrease the risks from overdependence on external economy. Moreover, in order WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  to overcome the middle -income trap and achieve high -income status, Thailan d plans to invest in the 
markets which have a potential to expand in a new normal scenario, especially in technology and 
innovation that adds high value to the new S -curve industries including robotics and automation, 
aviation and logistics, biofuels and b iochemicals, digital, integrated medical service, future 
automotive, smart devices, quality tourism and health tourism, biotechnology, agriculture and food 
processing which built upon Thailand 's traditional agricultural sector. The Government also focuses 
on upskilling the country 's workforce, promoting research and development, and enhancing the 
digital transformation.  
Regional Trade Arrangements and Economic Cooperation  
FTA 
2.10.   At present, Thailand has 13 regional and bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs) in  effect with 
18 trading partners. Thailand is in the process of negotiating FTAs with Pakistan, Turkey, and 
Sri Lanka. On 15 November 2020, Thailand and 14 countries ' Trade Ministers signed the Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement a nd agreed to expedite ratification process 
for the early implementation of the agreement. The RCEP agreement is the world 's largest free trade 
agreement, covering 30.2% of world population, 30% of global GDP, and 27.4% of global trade. We 
are positive that  the RCEP will enter into force soon.  
WTO 
2.11.   Thailand has always actively and constructively engaged in the multilateral trading system 
and regional economic cooperation. At multilateral level, Thailand constantly participates in 
discussions on key issues suc h as fisheries subsidies, agriculture and e -commerce including WTO 
reform. In April 2019, Thailand tabled a proposal on the dispute settlement system of the WTO to 
facilitate discussions and resolve the Appellate Body Impasse which is Thailand 's top priori ty. During 
2018 to 2019, Thailand 's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the WTO and WIPO, 
Ambassador Sunantha Kangvalkulkij, had the honour of serving as the Chair of the Dispute 
Settlement Body and General Council, undertaking a crucial role on sup porting Members to advance 
WTO on -going work and uphold the rules -based multilateral trading system.  
Regional Economic Cooperation  
2.12.   For regional economic cooperation, Thailand, as the ASEAN Chair in 2019, successfully 
delivered a number of key achievements under the theme of "Advancing Partnership for 
Sustainability ". The examples are future -orientation such as ASEAN Digital Integratio n Framework 
Action Plan (or DIFAP) 2019 -2025, enhancing connectivity via the ASEAN Single Window, and 
promoting sustainability in all dimension such as sustainable fisheries and clean energy. The 
conclusion of the text -based negotiation on RCEP was a key s uccess during Thailand 's ASEAN 
Chairmanship.  
2.13.   In addition, Thailand has been an active member of the Asia -Pacific Economic Cooperation 
(APEC). We have joined APEC economies on supporting the multilateral trading system and WTO 
related -work such as e -commer ce discussions and promoting transparency and notification 
especially on TBT measures. Thailand also supports the final review of the Bogor Goals in 2020 and 
will continue to work closely with APEC economies to fulfil APEC 's unfinished business.  
Thailand 's Successes During 2015 -2019  
Combat IUU Fishing  
2.14.   Since 2015, Thailand has taken significant steps to combat Illegal, Unreported and 
Unregulated Fishing (IUU Fishing) and was successfully delisted from the list of possible countries 
that do not cooperate unde r the IUU regulation of the European Union in 2019 (yellow card). Thailand 
has created a system to tackle IUU fishing such as developing new legal frameworks, improving fleet 
and fishery management, developing monitoring, control and surveillance system (M CS) which 
allows for traceability in fishery products. These measures aim to create sustainability for the 
fisheries sector through ensuring sustainable fishery management and improving the quality of life 
of fishermen and farmers.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  Removal of Red Flag Stat us 
2.15.   For civil aviation, Thailand was listed as a "Red Flag " country by the International Civil Aviation 
Organization (ICAO) in 2015. The Government worked hard to solve the problems and improved all 
operation. Finally, Thailand was removed from the red flag  list in 2017.  
Promotion of Competition  
2.16.   To create a free and fair competition and enhance transparency, Thailand has enacted a new 
Trade Competition Act in 2017 which regulates anti -competitive practices more effectively. Thailand 
has also established a ne w Office of Trade Competition Commission as an independent organization 
to ensure its independence and transparency in enforcing competition policy.  
BCG Economy  
2.17.   Thailand places importance on environmental and sustainability issues. The Government has 
launched a policy to promote Bio -Circular -Green or BCG Economy, which is driven by science, 
research, and innovation, to support Thai industries to achieve a balanced and sustainable growth 
and fulfil the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). T hailand believes that the BCG 
economy will move the Thai economy towards a resource efficient, sustainable, and 
innovation -driven economy.  
Intellectual Property Rights  
2.18.   Thailand has continued its effort to develop an effective and robust intellectual prope rty 
regime. In 2016, the National Committee on Intellectual Property Policy, which is chaired by the 
Prime Minister adopted a 20 -Year (2016 -2036) IP Roadmap which covers six areas, namely: (1) IP 
creation; (2) IP protection; (3) IP commercialization; (4) I P enforcement; (5) geographical 
indications; and (6) genetic resources, traditional knowledge and traditional cultural expressions.  
2.19.   With respect to legislative development, Thailand has amended its Trademark Act and 
Copyright Act.  
2.20.   In terms of IP enforceme nt, Thailand has continued to intensify its efforts in combatting IPR 
infringements in both physical and online marketplaces as well as other forms of infringements such 
as online piracy.  
2.21.   Thailand also recognizes the importance of joining IP agreements to ensure that our IP system 
is in line with international standards. In 2016, Thailand deposited its instrument of acceptance for 
the 2005 Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement. In addition, Thailand deposited its instruments 
of accession to the Madrid Proto col in 2017 and to the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to 
Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired or Otherwise Print Disabled in 2019.  
Trade Facilitation and Ease of Doing Business  
2.22.   Thailand has ratified the WTO agreement on Trad e Facilitation (TFA) in 2015 and has 
implemented 97.1% of its commitment in June 2020. Several measures were taken by responsible 
authorities to comply with the TFA. In order to guarantee effective implementation of the TFA, 
Thailand has established a Nati onal Committee on Trade Facilitation (NCTF) to oversee and 
coordinate with relevant agencies. Thailand has adopted action plans to improve the effectiveness 
of pre -arrival process such as e -Bill payment and e -Tracking systems.  
2.23.   Thailand also adopted severa l measures to enhance the ease of doing business for foreign 
investors. The Department of Business and Development (DBD) regularly reviews the list of 
exempted businesses from the foreign business license requirement in order to facilitate business 
operati ons and promote trade and investment in Thailand. The DBD has also launched the 
e-Registration System and single -service platform to facilitate business registration and reduce the 
cost of business operation. Thailand is ranked 21st out of 190 countries by  the World Bank in its 
Doing Business 2020 publication.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  2.24.   To this end, let me assure that the Royal Thai Government has been working diligently and 
will put its best efforts to drive economic recovery after COVID -19 under the key principle of 
transparency, a s well as to strengthen competitiveness and resilience of the country.  
2.25.   Thailand welcomes the valuable engagement and comments by Members and we are looking 
forward to the productive exchanges during this two -day meeting. Thank you for the floor.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  3  STATEMEN T BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  Gracias señor Presidente y buenos días en Ginebra, buenas tardes en Bangkok, a todos los 
presentes.  
3.2.  Quisiera iniciar estas palabras dando la bienvenida a la delegación de Tailandia, encabezada 
por Su Excelencia, el señor Rachavitch Piyapramote, Ministro de la Misión de Tailandia ante la OMC 
y la OMPI con sede en Bangkok, quien encabeza la delegación, y s aludar especialmente a mi 
distinguida colega y amiga, la Embajadora Sunanta Kangvalkulkij. De igual manera, quisiera 
agradecer a usted, señor Presidente, por la oportunidad y el honor que me ha brindado de 
desempeñarme como ponente.  
3.3.  Quisiera, en primer lug ar, expresar mis sinceras condolencias por el fallecimiento del Rey 
Bhumibol Adulyadej en el año 2016, y desear al Reinado de su Majestad Rey Maha Vajiralongkorn 
Bodindradebayavarangkun larga prosperidad.  
3.4.  Antes de entrar en materia, quisiera saludar la dis posición del Gobierno de Tailandia de asumir 
los plazos alternativos para la atención a las preguntas de los Miembros para este Examen, plazos 
que facilitarán el diálogo constructivo en esta reunión. De igual manera, merece mi reconocimiento 
el hecho de qu e Tailandia haya tomado la decisión de llevar a cabo este Examen a pesar de las 
severas condiciones sanitarias y económicas que el mundo está experimentando actualmente, 
mostrando su compromiso con el correcto funcionamiento del mecanismo de examen de polí ticas 
comerciales de esta Organización.  
3.5.  Como es costumbre en este Órgano, tenemos en frente de nosotros dos informes muy 
completos que sirven de base para este Examen, y un gran número de preguntas que reflejan el 
alto interés de la Membresía en las polít icas económico -comerciales de Tailandia. Obviamente, este 
interés de toda la Membresía no se da solamente por la rica cultura y la famosa belleza geográfica 
de Tailandia, que sin duda juegan un rol importante en el comercio de sus servicios turísticos, sin o 
que, además de ello, resulta evidente que Tailandia se distingue por ocupar un lugar importante en 
la economía y el comercio mundiales, como presentaré a continuación.  
3.6.  Tailandia se mantiene dentro de las 20 economías que más comercian internacionalmente  en 
el mundo. Ello se ejemplifica en que, en el año 2019, el valor de los intercambios comerciales de 
mercancías entre Tailandia y el resto del mundo sumaron más de 470 mil millones de dólares 
estadounidenses. Sus lazos comerciales parecen estar bastante d iversificados: si bien, como es 
natural por su ubicación, Tailandia se encuentra en el Asia el destino principal de sus exportaciones 
y el origen principal de sus importaciones, no por ello deja de tener importantes relaciones 
comerciales con los EEUU, la Unión Europea, América Latina, Oceanía, y otras regiones del mundo, 
perfilándose como un actor comercial global. Estimo también que Tailandia genera interés por su 
participación en la Asociación de Naciones del Sudeste Asiático (ASEAN), una organización 
internacional que goza de reconocimiento mundial por sus innovadores e intensos esfuerzos de 
cooperación económica internacional. Complementariamente, Tailandia ha buscado valerse de otros 
acuerdos y foros que fomentan la integración económico -comercial pref erencial, como el 
recientemente suscrito Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, cuya noticia ha dado la 
vuelta al mundo, o el APEC. Ello demuestra el interés de Tailandia en seguir profundizando de 
manera activa sus lazos comerciales, y mejorando su competitividad económico -comercial en 
general. En el ámbito de la inversión, es un importante receptor, pero al mismo tiempo se ha 
convertido en fuente de inversión extranjera directa, particularmente en los países miembros de 
ASEAN, demostrando el valor d e su proyección en materia de integración económica. En suma, 
Tailandia es un importante actor en el comercio internacional, tanto regional como 
extra-regionalmente, y como bien lo señalan los informes preparados para este Examen, tiene una 
participación m uy activa en el sistema multilateral de comercio, lo que demuestra de manera 
práctica el alto valor que Tailandia asigna a esta Organización.  
3.7.  Para preparar mis comentarios como ponente me he guiado por los resultados del precedente 
examen de políticas com erciales de Tailandia, que tuvo lugar en el 2015. En aquel año, se reconoció 
por ejemplo la solidez de la política macroeconómica tailandesa. Parece que Tailandia ha seguido 
caminando por esta vía durante el período bajo examen, implementando rápidamente m edidas 
contra cíclicas tanto ante la ligera desaceleración del crecimiento acaecida en 2019, como ante la 
mucho más seria depresión económica ocurrida como consecuencia de la pandemia del COVID -19 WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  durante el presente año. La disponibilidad de las medidas c ontra cíclicas fue permitida por la sólida 
posición fiscal del Gobierno tailandés. En este marco, estoy segura de que las medidas de apoyo a 
la economía en el contexto de la pandemia constituyen un asunto de interés por parte de los 
Miembros, y sobre el cu al ya ha sido interesante escuchar los comentarios que han sido vertidos y 
los resultados preliminares alcanzados por Tailandia, así como los previstos al futuro.  
3.8.  En su último examen, algunas delegaciones indicaron que Tailandia podría estar cayendo en la 
trampa de los ingresos medios, y por ende le animaron a emprender reformas estructurales. Por el 
contenido del informe de Tailandia, es evidente que su Gobierno ha estado trabajando intensamente 
en esta cuestión, trazándose una estrategia comprehensiva par a convertirse en una economía de 
ingresos altos en el año 2036, estrategia impregnada por una visión del desarrollo del país no sólo 
en el aspecto económico, sino también en los campos social y ambiental, incorporando objetivos 
concretos en estos ámbitos.  
3.9.  También en el año 2015 se invitó a Tailandia a mejorar su capacidad de producción de bienes 
de alto contenido tecnológico, como una herramienta que podría servirle para evitar la trampa de 
los ingresos medios. Este aspecto también ha sido recogido por la estrategia económica en curso, 
apuntando hacia el desarrollo industrial en tecnología digital, aviación, logística, robótica, entre 
otros. Sería interesante conocer más las medidas que Tailandia planea implementar para lograr el 
desarrollo de estas industr ias.  
3.10.   De igual manera, Tailandia ha tomado acción para responder a las solicitudes de la Membresía 
de reducir impedimentos para las inversiones. Esta respuesta ha tenido como elementos centrales 
la facilitación para hacer negocios, la reducción de los requ isitos de licencia para iniciar empresas 
en ciertos sectores, la implementación de sistemas electrónicos de registro de inversiones, entre 
otras medidas descritas en el informe del Miembro bajo Examen.  
3.11.   Tailandia también ha seguido realizando esfuerzos en materia de facilitación del comercio, de 
manera nacional o en conjunto con los países de la ASEAN. Por ejemplo, se han llevado a cabo 
desarrollos en la política de la ventanilla única, para reducir costos y simplificar trámites, valiéndose 
de las herramien tas electrónicas. Estos y otros aspectos de la facilitación del comercio sin duda 
pueden merecer comentarios de las delegaciones aquí presentes.  
3.12.   Por otro lado, la compleja estructura y el nivel de los derechos arancelarios en buena medida 
se han mantenido  o incluso incrementado su valor respecto del año 2015, y su eventual 
simplificación o liberalización sigue generando interés en los Miembros de esta Organización, de 
acuerdo con el contenido de las preguntas presentadas para este Examen. Por su parte, el informe 
de la Secretaría plantea que una eventual reforma arancelaria podría ser un elemento que ayude a 
la competitividad de la economía tailandesa, y sería interesante conocer la opinión del Miembro bajo 
examen sobre el particular.  
3.13.   De igual manera, me ll amó la atención la imposición de derechos de exportación a ciertos 
productos, derechos que no necesariamente son recaudados en la práctica en la mayoría de los 
casos, según indica el informe de la Secretaría. Parece, en este sentido, natural que estos dere chos 
generen incertidumbre, y sería deseable conocer las razones y los alcances de esta aplicación 
especial, así como los planes a futuro respecto al uso de estas medidas.  
3.14.   En el ámbito de las medidas de defensa comercial, el uso de algunas salvaguardias s e ha 
mantenido en el período bajo examen, y una nueva investigación está en curso. Podría ser 
interesante conocer más en detalle los fundamentos que han llevado a la aplicación de estas 
medidas.  
3.15.   Por otra parte, al igual que en 2015, los Miembros han seguid o planteando interrogantes a 
Tailandia respecto a normas técnicas, sanitarias y fitosanitarias que afectan las exportaciones a 
dicho país. El informe preparado por la Secretaría de la OMC señala que solo el 37,4% de las normas 
técnicas nacionales son idént icas o similares a normas internacionales, y me parece que podría ser 
relevante conocer la visión general de Tailandia sobre este aspecto de sus políticas.  
3.16.   Antes de concluir esta intervención, quisiera señalar que me he quedado gratamente 
impresionada con  el enfoque que ha empleado Tailandia para la elaboración de su informe para este 
Examen, informe que en mi opinión refleja que Tailandia ha brindado atención a diversos asuntos WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  que fueron planteados por la Membresía en este Órgano hace 5 años, como se pue de evidenciar en 
los desarrollos recientes de sus políticas económico -comerciales. De igual manera, quisiera expresar 
que, habiéndome desempeñado por primera vez como ponente, he tenido la oportunidad de conocer 
de cerca la complejidad y profundidad de los  trabajos e intercambios preparatorios para esta 
reunión, por lo que estoy segura de que el diálogo que tendrá lugar a continuación, nos llevará a 
culminar un excelente ejercicio de conocimiento y comprensión de las políticas comerciales de 
Tailandia, en b eneficio de todos los participantes. Finalmente, confío en que la delegación de 
Tailandia estará atenta a los comentarios de las delegaciones aquí reunidas, de manera que en unos 
años podamos comprobar en este Órgano de la OMC, evoluciones específicas en l a política comercial 
de Tailandia, gracias al diálogo llevado a cabo en esta reunión. Muchas gracias.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.1.  I would like to extend a warm welcome to Thailand 's delegation led by Mr Piyapramote . I would 
also like to thank the discussant, Ambassador Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa of Peru for sharing with 
us her insights, and the Secretariat for their comprehensive report.  
4.2.  Hong Kong, China (HKC) and Thailand have long been enjoying fruitful bilater al trade and 
economic relations. We always treasure Thailand as a valuable trading partner and the development 
of two -way trade between us has been encouraging. In 2019, Thailand was HKC 's 10th largest 
trading partner in merchandise trade, and Thailand ran ked the 4th among the ten ASEAN Member 
States in terms of trade in goods with HKC. In services trade, Thailand was our 10th largest trading 
partner in 2018.  
4.3.  Since the entry into force of the ASEAN -HKC Free Trade Agreement and the related Investment 
Agreeme nt in June 2019, HKC has been working closely with Thailand and other ASEAN Member 
States to ensure smooth implementation of the two Agreements. We look forward to further 
strengthening our economic ties with Thailand by facilitating flow of goods, service s and investment 
under the two Agreements.  
4.4.  Now I would like to turn to our observations on some specific areas in Thailand 's trade policies.  
4.5.  We appreciate Thailand 's active engagement in the WTO work and good record of notifications 
to the WTO.  
4.6.  On trade facilitation, we commend Thailand 's continued efforts in simplifying and modernizing 
its customs procedures in response to a rapidly changing economic and technological environment 
to facilitate trade. Thailand has adopted a new Customs Act in Novemb er 2017 to modernize its 
customs laws and introduced several action plans to improve customs processes that allow for 
electronic submission of customs registrations, declarations and documents.  
4.7.  Thailand has maintained an Authorized Economic Operator Progra mme and has signed Mutual 
Recognition Arrangements on this Programme with other Members, including one with HKC since 
June 2015. We are pleased to note that Thailand has implemented more than 97% of its 
commitments and has fulfilled its obligations in subm itting transparency notifications required under 
the Agreement on Trade Facilitation.  
4.8.  On tariffs, while Thailand has lowered the applied MFN tariffs on agricultural products from 
34.7% in 2014 to 32.7% in 2020, it is still substantially higher than that of  non-agricultural products 
at 11.8%. Thailand also applies import surcharges on certain agricultural products (such as soya 
bean cake and maize for feedstuff). The agricultural sector continues to be relatively protected and 
we would encourage Thailand to further liberalize its agricultural sector by reviewing its existing 
market access measures.  
4.9.  We are glad to note that Thailand has submitted updated notifications on export subsidies and 
market access, and that it did not provide any export subsidies durin g the review period. Thailand 
did not invoke any special safeguard even though it has reserved the right to do so for 55 tariff line 
items. Nevertheless, Thailand 's last notification on domestic support to the WTO covers only up to 
calendar year 2016. We w ould encourage Thailand to submit the outstanding notifications on 
domestic support to facilitate a more up -to-date and effective review on its implementation of 
commitments by Members.  
4.10.   Services continue to be the main contributor of Thailand 's economy and  account for a 
significant share of Thailand 's GDP and employment. We appreciate Thailand 's effort in reducing 
market entry restrictions and equity limitations for various sectors during the review period, and 
would encourage Thailand to consider further l iberalizing its trade regime so as to tie in with its 
national polices and development plans to attract foreign investments and strengthen international 
cooperation.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.11.   HKC looks forward to further fostering the bilateral trade and economic relations with 
Thailand. We thank Thailand for its replies to part of our written questions and would look forward 
to receiving replies to the remaining questions. I wish Thailand a successful trade policy review.  
PERÚ  
4.12.   La delegación peruana saluda atentamente a todos los pr esentes, y da la más cordial 
bienvenida a la delegación de Tailandia, en especial al señor Rachavitch Piyapramote, ministro de la 
Misión de Tailandia ante la OMC y la OMPI con sede en Bangkok, quien encabeza la delegación, y a 
la Embajadora Sunanta Kangval kulkik.  
4.13.   De igual manera, expresamos nuestro alto aprecio por su dedicación a los trabajos de este 
Órgano, señor Presidente, así como por el trabajo llevado a cabo por la Secretaría para este examen.  
4.14.   En primer lugar, el Perú quisiera expresar sus condolenc ias por el fallecimiento del Rey 
Bhumibol Adulyadej en 2016. El Perú acompaña al pueblo tailandés en su duelo y desea larga vida 
y prosperidad al Rey Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun.  
4.15.   En seguida, mi delegación quisiera reconocer los importantes pasos dados por Tailandia en el 
período bajo examen, en materia de solidez macroeconómica, atracción de la inversión extranjera, 
facilitación del comercio, integración comercial regional, entre otros asuntos. En esta última esfera, 
cabe destacar la recient e firma de la Asociación Económica Integral Regional, o RCEP por sus siglas 
en inglés, que promoverá mayores flujos comerciales en una de las regiones con mayor crecimiento 
y perspectivas en el mundo. De igual manera, el Perú resalta el trabajo de Tailandi a en el ámbito de 
la planificación, según ha quedado evidenciado en el informe de Tailandia en este examen, que 
busca lograr el aumento de la diversidad de industrias, la productividad y la innovación, con miras 
en convertirse en una economía de altos ingr esos hacia el año 2036.  
4.16.   El Perú ve con satisfacción el importante compromiso de Tailandia con los trabajos de esta 
Organización, incluida su participación en las negociaciones de subvenciones a la pesca, comercio 
electrónico, agricultura, y, recientemente , en la negociación referida a la reglamentación nacional 
de servicios. Igualmente, el Perú agradece la especial dedicación de la Embajadora Kangvalkulkij 
como presidenta  del Órgano de Solución de Diferencias en 2018 y, posteriormente, del Consejo 
General en 2019, en un momento de especial complejidad en la historia de esta Organización.  
4.17.   En el marco de una asociación estratégica bilateral, el Perú y Tailandia son socios comerciales 
preferenciales, habiendo entrado en vigor en el año 2011 el Protocolo entre  la República del Perú y 
el Reino de Tailandia para Acelerar la Liberalización del Comercio de Mercancías y la Facilitación del 
Comercio. Mediante este instrumento y sus protocolos complementarios, hemos logrado liberalizar 
el 75% del universo arancelario.  En este marco, el comercio bilateral se sitúa actualmente alrededor 
de los 600 millones de dólares estadounidenses anuales, existiendo un gran potencial a ser explotado 
en el futuro.  
4.18.   Paralelamente, el Perú y Tailandia cooperan en el marco de APEC, foro en el cual se han 
llevado a cabo importantes iniciativas a lo largo del presente año para facilitar el flujo de bienes en 
el contexto de la pandemia en curso, coordinar posiciones en rel ación a la OMC, y desarrollar una 
amplia agenda que abarca la economía digital, la eficiencia energética, el manejo de residuos, el 
empoderamiento económico de la mujer, entre otros asuntos. Asimismo, la reunión de líderes 
llevada a cabo la semana pasada, ha ratificado la centralidad de APEC como foro para la concertación 
de políticas y proyectos futuros, que conduzcan eficazmente a la región del Asia Pacífico a 
consolidarse como una comunidad abierta, dinámica, resiliente y pacífica.   
4.19.   Con relación a las pr eguntas del Perú en este Examen, mi delegación agradece a Tailandia 
por las respuestas provistas, las que nos han permitido conocer las políticas del Miembro bajo 
examen que favorecen el empoderamiento económico de la mujer, especialmente a través del 
come rcio.  
4.20.   Habiendo señalado esto, deseo concluir esta intervención deseando a Tailandia un exitoso 
examen de sus políticas comerciales.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  AUSTRALIA  
4.21.   At the outset, I want to express our thanks to both our Thai colleagues and also Her Excellency 
Ambassador of Peru, serving as the Discussant. Having done the first of these virtual trade policy 
reviews - we were forced into that circumstance in March this year - we are very sympathetic with 
Thailand having to do the same.  
4.22.   We wish to congratulate Thailand on its l arger approach to the containment of COVID -19. The 
recovery from COVID -19 will be long, and the economic impact has been disproportionately felt by 
Thailand 's rural and lower income communities. It is important that we work together to support our 
respecti ve COVID -19 economic recoveries, including with respect to supply chain resilience and 
vaccine development.  
4.23.   Australia and Thailand have a long history of friendship and cooperation, and we are pleased 
to elevate relations to the level of a Strategic Partne rship, as was announced earlier this month. We 
both have a strong commitment to economic cooperation through forums such as the WTO, the East 
Asia Summit, APEC and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership which we both recently 
signed.  
4.24.   We have a st rong trade and economic relationship with Thailand,  and it has grown significantly 
since the entry into force of the Thailand -Australia Free Trade Agreement, or TAFTA, in 2005. In 
2019, Thailand was Australia's fifth highest goods import source, our 10th l argest goods and services 
trading partner, and our third -largest trading partner in ASEAN.  
4.25.   Australia is strongly committed to working with Thailand to boost bilateral trade and 
investment under our new Strategic Partnership.  
4.26.   Trade and investment liberali zation, together with a pro -business regulatory environment, 
have and will continue to play a key role in ensuring sustained growth in Thailand. We encourage 
Thailand to continue its economic and trade policy reform, which will pave the way for greater 
productivity gains, increased competitiveness and further economic integration.  
4.27.   Thailand has, of course, achieved significant efficiencies during COVID -19 that have made 
doing business easier, particularly on issues like e -documentation and e -commerce. We enc ourage 
Thailand to keep these efficiencies in place and expand them further, where possible.  
4.28.   Australia welcomes Thailand 's relatively liberal foreign investment regime in manufacturing, 
which has resulted in significant levels of foreign investment. Easing limitations for foreign firms on 
land ownership and on retaining majority shareholdings would promote investment further and 
stimulate Thailand's economy.  
4.29.   There are complex regulatory frameworks governing the services sector, including f oreign 
ownership restrictions. Australia has strong interests in expanding business links in the Thai services 
sector, including in financial services, telecommunications, transport and logistics, education, 
professional services, construction, services in cidental to mining, environmental services and 
business mobility. We encourage Thailand to continue undertaking reforms that are necessary to 
increase competition, productivity and innovation in key services sectors.  
4.30.   Australia welcomes Thailand 's announce ment earlier this month that it will join the Services 
Domestic Regulation Joint Statement Initiative. Australia looks forward to working closely with 
Thailand to see these negotiations through to a successful conclusion and hopes that Thailand 's 
participa tion will demonstrate the value of the Initiative to non -participating Members, including 
other ASEAN Members.   
4.31.   We also want to acknowledge that agricultural trade has been liberalized through the 
implementation of tariff reductions agreed under TAFTA and the ASEAN -Australia -New Zealand Free 
Trade Agreement (AANZFTA). Regular meetings of the SPS Expert Group on SPS Measures and Food 
Standards established under TAFTA have fostered dialogue and cooperation between the Thai and 
the Australian government regula tory agencies to deliver positive outcomes for agricultural trade.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.32.   As one of the world's leading exporters of agricultural products, particularly of rice and rubber, 
Thailand has much to gain from policies that promote a stable, predictable and market -based 
agricultural trading system, and constantly improve innovation and efficiency in the sector. Australia 
appreciates Thailand's efforts to progress agricultural reform at the WTO as a key member of the 
Cairns Group alongside Australia. Thailand's globally competitive agriculture sector has benefitted 
greatly from the open global trading system. Nevertheless, there are a number of protections 
remaining in the Thai agriculture. To enhance Thailand's efficiency and success in this sector and to 
demonstrate Tha iland's commitment to free and open trade and investment in agriculture, we urge 
Thailand to commit to further reforms in this sector and to eliminate protective measures that do 
not align with the WTO Agreement on Agriculture 's long -term objective of prog ressive reductions in 
support and protection.  
4.33.   We acknowledge Thailand 's commitment to achieving balanced and sustainable management 
of agriculture resources and the environment, including adaptation to climate change to ensure a 
viable agriculture sector i nto the future.  
4.34.   We also welcome Thailand 's active participation in the WTO fisheries subsidies negotiations, 
particularly as a significant producer through marine capture fishing. Thailand has much to contribute 
in these negotiations to help us find a stro ng outcome.  
4.35.   Australia welcomes Thailand 's active engagement in the WTO and its clear support for the 
role of the Organization in promoting trade, trade liberalization and inclusive economic development. 
Thailand 's commitment is demonstrated by its membersh ip of the WTO ‘Friends of the System ' 
group. In the period covered by this review, Thailand has ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement 
and is well on the way to implementing all of its commitments. It has also implemented its ITA2 
commitments. Thailand,  of course, is actively engaged in the E -commerce JSI. As a fellow Cairns 
Group member, we particularly welcome Thailand 's support in developing a Framework for 
Negotiations in Domestic Support in agriculture and active outreach, particularly with other AS EAN 
Members.   
4.36.   We want to emphasize the active and excellent working relationship with Thailand. We want 
to encourage Thailand to continue its good work with its COVID -19 recovery and want to thank 
Thailand for the many wonderful responses to the questions.  We will review these responses very 
carefully in the days and weeks to come.  
NORWAY  
4.37.   Let me join others in welcoming the delegation from Thailand to this review of Thailand 's 
trade policy, and thank the Secretariat and the Government of Thailand for their reports.  
4.38.   Norway and Thailand have excellent bilateral and economic relations that we highly 
appreciate. Norway has substantial interests as an investor in several industries in Thailand, 
including in telecommunications. Thailand is also a significant expo rt market for Norwegian seafood, 
fertilisers and other products.  
4.39.   Let me start by congratulating Thailand for having adopted a national action plan on Business 
and Human Rights. This underscores the good intentions of Thailand 's authorities to combat 
corrup tion and strengthen labour rights.  
4.40.   I would also like to congratulate Thailand for having improved its ranking on the "Ease of 
doing business " index in recent years. This is positive for economic growth, for trade and for 
attracting foreign direct investmen ts. This does not, however, mean that there are no room for 
improvements.  
4.41.   Norwegian investors in Thailand are pointing out that Thailand 's Foreign Business Act is still 
restrictive, especially as regards the number of professions reserved for Thai nationa ls, as well as 
the number of industries deemed not yet ready to compete with foreigners. While some constraints 
for inter -company activities have been eased lately, these changes are minor in real terms and do 
not in our view address the situation for the majority of foreign businesses.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.42.   In order for a company to be able to operate as a 100% owned foreign entity in restricted 
fields, a Foreign Business Licence is required. Unless the investment involves setting up 
manufacturing plants mainly for export, oft en granted through Thailand 's Board of Investment, 
applying for a foreign business licence can be a bureaucratic and lengthy process.  
4.43.   Applying for visas and work permits for foreign staff is seen as a laborious process. For a 
foreign company to be allowed to operate in Thailand, strict requirements need to be fulfilled as to 
the ratios between local staff and foreigners. We would encoura ge Thailand to move towards a less 
restrictive approach with no restrictions on foreign ownership.  
4.44.   International shipping is very important to Norway, and maritime transport is an important 
facilitator of world trade. Four -fifths of world trade by volume is carried by sea. The challenges 
related to the Covid -19 pandemic accentuate the importance of open and efficient global supply 
chains. Commitments in maritime transport contribute to stable and predictable terms and 
conditions for the service providers a nd their customers, in addition to the economic benefits for the 
society as a whole. It is therefore essential that more member states join us in taking commitments 
in maritime transport services.  
4.45.   We therefore appreciate that Thailand - like Norway - has u ndertaken bound commitments 
for international maritime transport services in the schedule under the GATS agreement, and for 
core transport services that is delivery mode 1 - cross border supply.  
4.46.   On this background we have noted information in the Secretari at's report, in paragraph 4.193, 
regarding the existence of restrictions on maritime transportation of government cargoes imported 
to Thailand, and question whether such restrictions are in conformity with Thailand 's GATS 
commitments. This issue has been a ddressed in our written questions, and we are eagerly looking 
forward to receiving a response to our questions.  
4.47.   Let me conclude by commending the delegation of Thailand to the WTO in Geneva for their 
active and constructive engagement in support of a rule s-based multilateral trading regime, under 
the able leadership of my good colleague and friend Ambassador Sunanta.  
4.48.   I wish the delegation of Thailand a successful TPR.  
CANADA  
4.49.   We welcome this opportunity to participate in the 8th Trade Policy Review of Thai land.  
4.50.   First, we would like to acknowledge Thailand 's commitment to rules -based trade, particularly 
at this time when global collaboration is necessary to address economic challenges and prepare for 
post-pandemic recovery. Furthermore, we acknowledge Thail and's support for the WTO Working 
Group on Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) statement highlighting the importance of 
MSMEs in COVID -19 recovery and the Statement on COVID -19 by APEC Ministers Responsible for 
Trade.  
4.51.   We commend Thailand 's continuing  improvements on its intellectual property system. 
Predictable, transparent, and robust intellectual property systems are key to economic development 
and support growth in innovative industries. We also congratulate Thailand for its recent accession 
to the  World Intellectual Property Organization 's Madrid Agreement Concerning the International 
Registration of Marks in 2017 and to the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works 
for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired or Otherwise Print Disa bled in 2019. We also support 
Thailand 's continuing efforts to accede to other WIPO instruments, which complement and support 
predictable and transparent IP administration and by extension rules -based trade.   
4.52.   We appreciate Thailand 's ongoing efforts to adv ance a possible Canada -ASEAN FTA. During 
Thailand 's ASEAN Chairmanship in 2019, Canada and ASEAN announced the successful conclusion 
of FTA exploratory discussions. We look forward to continuing to engage with Thailand on this 
important initiative and to w orking with Thailand to promote the open, rules -based trading system.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.53.   This review period also saw Thailand serve as the 2019 ASEAN Chair. We are grateful for the 
leadership taken by Thailand in advancing its various sustainability goals for the region and for its 
support to Dialogue Partners.  
4.54.   As Thailand strives to improve different aspects of its economic and market environment, 
there are four areas on which it may wish to focus.  
4.55.   Firstly, while we are aware of Thailand 's efforts to address perv asive corruption, including 
through the enactment of the 2017 Public Procurement and Supplies Administration Act, efforts to 
tackle the problem are still necessary as the Kingdom continues to fare poorly on international 
corruption indexes. We encourage Th ailand to continue pursuing concrete measures to address 
corruption with a view to improving confidence for those seeking to do business in the country, 
especially in the context of its Thailand 4.0 policy and the development of the Eastern Economic 
Corrid or (EEC).  
4.56.   Secondly, on government procurement, we recognize that Thailand is an observer to the WTO 
Government Procurement Committee and has included provisions on cooperation and information 
sharing in some of its FTAs. Going forward, we would encourage T hailand to consider expanding 
these obligations to also cover market access commitments.   
4.57.   Thirdly, on financial services, we acknowledge Thailand 's effort to remove foreign banks, and 
life and non -life insurance businesses from the list of restricted activ ities. We also recognize 
Thailand 's ongoing liberalization of its banking sector through bilateral negotiations with ASEAN 
members. We would appreciate clarification of the application and specifications of Thailand 's 
liberalization efforts in order to bet ter understand the scope of these reforms.  
4.58.   Fourthly, Thailand 's WTO notifications record is very good. In doing so, Thailand is supporting 
the WTO 's monitoring function and the ability of other Members to understand its policy actions. One 
area where we e ncourage Thailand to do further work is in regard to notifying its agriculture domestic 
support for the years 2009 to 2013. Canada and Thailand share the common objective of undertaking 
reforms to global agriculture trade as Members of the Cairns Group and  as illustrated by their 
co-sponsorship of the Framework on Domestic Support agreed by Cairns Groups Ministers in January 
2020.  
4.59.   We would like to thank Thailand for its inclusion of MSME -related information in its 
Government report. The voluntary provision of this information is an important contribution that 
supports analysis and discussion of MSME -related issues in WTO Councils and Committee. Building 
on its constructive participation in the Joint Statement Initiatives (JSI) on e -commerce and on 
services d omestic regulation, we also encourage Thailand to participate in the JSI on investment 
facilitation, as well as support the Joint Declaration on Trade and Women 's Economic Empowerment.  
4.60.   We have submitted written questions that reflect some of the concerns r aised today. We look 
forward to Thailand 's responses, and to a constructive exchange of views on all aspects of Thailand 's 
trade policy.  
CHILE  
4.61.   Saludamos a la numerosa delegación de Tailandia, encabezada por el Ministro de Comercio 
señor Rachavitch Piyapram ote, a quien damos la bienvenida en la OMC.  
4.62.   Destacamos y valoramos el trabajo que realiza la Representante Permanente de Tailandia 
ante la OMC, Embajadora Sunanta Kangvalkulkij y de su Representante Permanente Alterno 
Chakarin Komolsiri y los miembros de l a activa delegación de Tailandia ante la OMC. Agradecemos 
también a Silvia Alfaro, la Embajadora de Perú por su detallado informe que nos ilustra bastante 
bien sobre la realidad comercial en Tailandia. Agradecemos también a las autoridades de Tailandia 
por las respuestas a las preguntas formuladas por Chile.  
4.63.   La relación entre Chile y Tailandia es de muy larga data. El vínculo entre ambos países ha 
sido de creciente colaboración y entendimiento nacido de políticas públicas y una visión sobre los 
beneficios d el libre comercio, que son similares. Ambos somos miembros del Foro Económico de 
Asia-Pacífico, APEC.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.64.   Durante el año 2019 Tailandia fue el destino principal de las exportaciones chilenas dentro de 
todo el bloque ASEAN.  
4.65.   Quiero destacar el Tratado de Libre C omercio entre Chile y Tailandia que entró en vigencia el 
5 de noviembre de 2015 y que comprende el comercio preferencial de bienes y servicios. El Acuerdo 
otorgó acceso preferencial inmediato a más del 90% de los productos sin considerar excepciones.  
4.66.   En junio de 2019 se realizó la III Comisión Administradora del TLC, en Bangkok. En esa 
ocasión sesionaron el Comité de Medidas Sanitarias y Fitosanitarias, y el Comité de Bienes, Reglas 
de Origen y Procedimientos Aduaneros.  
4.67.   Durante el año 2019, el intercambio  comercial fue de USD 1.075 millones, disminuyendo en 
un 24% en comparación al 2018. Las exportaciones totales fueron de USD 381 millones, con una 
contracción de 8,9% en comparación a igual período del 2018. Las importaciones registraron 
USD 694 millones.  
4.68.   Durante el periodo entre enero y agosto de 2020, el intercambio comercial bilateral fue de 
USD 598 millones, disminuyendo en un 17%, en comparación con igual período registrado durante 
el 2019.  
4.69.   Durante el mismo período, las exportaciones chilenas alcanzaro n los USD 233 millones, lo que 
representa una disminución de 1,8% en comparación con igual período registrado en 2019. Las 
exportaciones mineras en su conjunto son aquellas que representan más presencia para Chile, 
avaluadas en USD 112 millones. Respecto d e las importaciones (CIF), entre enero y agosto de 2020, 
se registra un monto equivalente a USD 365 millones. Es indudable que los efectos negativos de la 
pandemia en el comercio mundial también se reflejan en nuestra relación comercial bilateral.  
4.70.   Por otra  parte, la inversión chilena en Tailandia esta valorizada en más de USD 190 millones, 
radicada principalmente en el sector de los servicios, especialmente en la comercialización de 
productos agroindustriales, y en el sector industrial, particularmente en q uímica y metalmecánica.  
4.71.   Como señalé, la III Comisión de Libre Comercio del TLC se realizó en Bangkok, Tailandia los 
días 20 y 21 de junio de 2019. En la reunión se acordó el contenido del Código de Conducta para los 
procedimientos de Solución de Controversias indicando que dicho acuerdo sería adoptado mediante 
un intercambio de Notas Diplomáticas. Esperamos que Tailandia pueda proceder también en esta 
materia.  
4.72.   Se acordó la Transposición de las Reglas Específicas de Origen desde el HS 2012 al HS 2017. 
El 17 de diciembre de 2019, C hile envió borrador de Nota Diplomática y también esperamos que 
Tailandia pueda proceder en esta materia.  
4.73.   Chile espera avanzar en las autorizaciones para el sector agrícola, especialmente en los envíos 
de peras. En la III Reunión de la CLC, Tailandia infor mó que aún no finalizaba el análisis respectivo 
y no se ha confirmado una fecha sobre cuándo podrían ser conocidos.  
4.74.   También se encuentra pendientes algunos certificados para el comercio de subproductos 
ovinos y de cueros salados de ovino. También es impor tante conocer los requisitos para la 
exportación de plasma y hemoglobina de bovinos.  
4.75.   Por otra parte, las autoridades chilenas, en conjunto con la Agencia de Cooperación 
Internacional de Tailandia (TICA) y el Instituto del Mekong se encuentran coordinando l a realización 
de un taller de capacitación para funcionarios del gobierno de ASEAN sobre negociaciones 
comerciales internacionales. Las partes han acordado la conveniencia de llevar a cabo el taller 
durante el primer trimestre de 2021.  
4.76.   Además, en el mes d e junio de 2020 se designó al Sr. Kanit Si como presidente del Capítulo 
del Consejo Empresarial Bilateral para el período 1º de mayo 2020 al 30 de abril 2022. En 2020, se 
cumplen 6 años de creación de este Consejo, el que cuenta con más de 33 miembros, y h a 
contribuido a generar un creciente entendimiento y cooperación recíproca entre ambos países, en 
favor del necesario fortalecimiento de las relaciones económicas, comerciales y empresariales entre 
Chile y Tailandia.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.77.   Agradecemos nuevamente a Tailandia por los esfuerzos realizados para aumentar la calidad 
y profundidad de nuestra relación bilateral, especialmente en el ámbito comercial.  
4.78.   Tenemos mucho trabajo que realizar en forma conjunta para el beneficio mutuo de nuestros 
pueblos.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.79.   We welcome Thailand 's delegation led by Minister Piyapramote, and we appreciate the reports 
prepared by the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Thailand for Thailand 's eighth Trade Policy 
Review (TPR).  
4.80.   Thailand is an important economic partner of the United  States, and we have a long trade 
relationship dating back to the 1833 U.S. -Thailand Treaty of Amity and Commerce. In 2019, U.S. 
goods and services two -way trade with Thailand totalled an estimated USD 52.7 billion. The United 
States continues to work clos ely with Thailand through our Trade and Investment Framework 
Agreement (TIFA) to enhance our bilateral trade relationship and address priority issues.  
4.81.   The United States commends Thailand for maintaining macro -financial stability and solid 
economic growth s ince its last TPR, though we take note of Thailand 's recent economic slowdown in 
2020, which has been aggravated by the impact of the COVID -19 pandemic. The United States 
supports the Royal Thai Government 's active engagement in WTO negotiations and notifi cations to 
the WTO, as well as its efforts to enact new and amended domestic trade -related legislation and 
regulations.  
4.82.   Thailand is a significant player in global trade and is well -integrated into the trading system. 
In 2019, it accounted for nearly 1.3% o f global merchandise trade. In part for this reason, we call 
on Thailand to no longer seek special and differential treatment in current and future WTO 
negotiations. By taking this step, Thailand would make a significant contribution to ensuring that the 
WTO remains a viable forum for meaningful trade negotiations.  
4.83.   As was the case during Thailand 's previous Trade Policy Reviews, we remain interested in 
Thailand 's plans for further customs reforms. The United States welcomes Thailand 's efforts to 
implement the Trade Facilitation Agreement and appreciate the updates from the Royal Thai 
Government that it has implemented 97% of its provisions. We also recognize the efforts by Thailand 
to enact incremental customs reforms through the amendments to the Customs A ct in 2017. 
However, we remain concerned with penalties regime of Thai Customs and the continued use of 
commission payments for customs officials and informants. Although the reduction in per penalty 
commission range and cap were an improvement, we were di sappointed that the Customs Act 
amendments did not eliminate the use of commission payments. We would appreciate an update 
from the Thai delegation on the Government 's plans to enact further customs reforms in this area.  
4.84.   We also have concerns about aspects  of Thailand 's regime for agriculture products and SPS 
measures maintained by Thailand to restrict trade. For example, we are interested in better 
understanding the import fees and approval procedures for live animals and/or animal products. We 
would also like a better understanding of Thai standards on food safety, in addition to applications 
and procedures for genetically engineered products.  
4.85.   We applaud the efforts by the Royal Thai Government to strengthen elements of its intellectual 
property rights sy stem, including the amendment of the Trademark and Copyright Acts, the 
establishment of a National Committee on Intellectual Property Policy, addressing backlogs for 
patent and trademark applications, as well as sustained enforcement efforts to combat coun terfeit 
and pirated goods. As Thailand works to strengthen its IPR framework, we would be interested in 
hearing about its plans for improvements in other areas. We also would appreciate updates on 
Thailand 's progress in amending its Patent Act and acceding  to the Hague Agreement and WIPO 
Internet Treaties.  
4.86.   The United States supports Thailand 's efforts over the past decade to liberalize its 
telecommunications market and improvements in Thai implementing domestic legislation on foreign 
equity limitations. We encourage Thailand to revise its WTO General Agreement on Trade in Services 
(GATS) schedule to reflect these higher foreign -equity limits, as it pledged to do in its 1997 schedule. WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  The United States would welcome an update from Thailand on its plans to ame nd its GATS schedule 
to reflect its current level of market access.  
4.87.   Finally, I wish to note that the United States submitted 53 advanced written questions to the 
Royal Thai Government. However, we receive replies to less than half of them – 26, and there i s no 
indication when we will receive the remaining responses. Unfortunately, this prevents the United 
States from fully engaging in this TPR, as we do not have the benefit of the expected exchange of 
information on trade policy and may not have an opportun ity to ask follow -up questions. 
Transparency is a cornerstone of this exercise, and an important indicator of a successful TPR. We 
ask that the remaining questions be answered prior to Day 2.  
4.88.   Nevertheless, we appreciate the opportunity provided by this mee ting to discuss Thailand 's 
trade and investment policies. We look forward to receiving Thailand 's responses to our advanced 
written questions, to working together to address outstanding issues and further strengthen our 
bilateral relationship, and to continue our cooperation here at the WTO and in ASEAN, APEC, and 
other fora.  
CHINA  
4.89.   China warmly welcomes the delegation of Thailand to this virtual Trade Policy Review and 
would also like to express our appreciation to the Discussant, Ambassador of Peru for th e detailed 
report and insightful comments and also the Secretariat 's efforts and contributions to this TPR.  
4.90.   China and Thailand are close neighbours with a long history of close and vibrant economic 
relationship, which are underpinned by strong trade and in vestment flows. China has been the 
largest trade partner of Thailand and was the biggest investment source of Thailand in 2019. 
Thailand is the third largest trading partner of China in ASEAN. Despite the negative impact on trade 
brought by the covid -19 pa ndemic, the bilateral trade continues to keep growing. For the first three 
quarters of this year, we are pleased to see the bilateral trade reaching USD 71.8 billion, up 8.1% 
year on year.  
4.91.   China highly commends Thailand 's firm commitments to the rules -based multilateral trading 
system especially in the current difficult situation, when WTO is facing the biggest existential 
challenges since its establishment. We recognize Thailand 's constructive participation in the WTO 
work, especially during this review period, its active participation in ITA expansion negotiation and 
its implementation of the Agreement, as well as Thailand 's early ratification of Trade Facilitation 
Agreement with high commitments in category A. We also appreciate Ambassador Sunant a for her 
contribution esp. As the GC chair last year.  
4.92.   Thailand 's active role in the regional cooperation has also been well recognized. Among all 
those FTAs and regional cooperation with Thailand as a member or party, China would specifically 
commend Thai land's active engagement in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership 
negotiation and its signature on it ten days ago together with other 14 parties after 8 years of 
negotiations. We are looking forward to the RCEP early entry into force and believe  this would not 
only benefit RCEP parties but would also bring significant opportunities and benefits to other 
countries both in the region and outside the region. In the meantime, participation in the RCEP also 
shows Thailand 's firm belief in trade libera lization and openness, especially during the time when 
the global trade is suffering unilateralism and protectionism.  
4.93.   Finally, we would like to thank Thailand for its written replies to our written questions and 
wish Thailand a full successful trade policy  review.  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.94.   On behalf of Her Majesty 's Government, I am pleased to add my welcome to the delegation 
of Thailand, led by the Honourable Mr Rachavitch Piyapramote. The UK is encouraged by the 
improvements made during the previous review period, s uch as the consideration of ways to 
strengthen protection of intellectual property rights. We likewise appreciate Thailand 's responses to 
our written questions.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.95.   I would also like to thank Her Excellency Sunanta Kangvalkulkij (the Permanent 
Representative o f Thailand to the WTO and WIPO) for her leadership, and Her Excellency Silvia Alfaro 
Espinosa (Peru) for her insightful and illuminating remarks as discussant.  
4.96.   The COVID -19 pandemic has created difficult circumstances for us all. We note that Thailand 
has taken recent steps to stimulate its economy and has implemented a number of measures to 
facilitate the movement of goods during the pandemic. We welcome this commitment to keeping 
global value chains open.  
4.97.   2020 marks the 165th year of diplomatic relations between the UK and Thailand. Our two 
countries have had a long and historic relationship, with shared values and, particularly, an interest 
in mutual prosperity and maintaining the rules based international system. Thailand is one of the 
UK's most valued t rading partners. Our total bilateral trade in goods and services was £6.2bn in the 
four quarters to the end of Q1 2020, an increase of £20m from the previous year.  
4.98.   The UK is pleased to be conducting a bilateral Joint Trade Review with Thailand, due to 
conclude this year. Through this, both sides are identifying opportunities to enhance bilateral trade 
relations and set the groundwork for future cooperation, supporting the UK 's ambition to use our 
voice as a new independent trading nation to champion free tr ade, strengthen the rules -based 
international system, fight protectionism and reduce trade barriers, including by working specifically 
with our closest trading partners.  
4.99.   We enjoy extensive trade and diplomatic collaboration, particularly within the WTO whe re we 
are both founding Members. An example of a service sector where we have close collaboration is 
education. The British Council has worked in Thailand for over 60 years and has six offices in the 
country providing English courses, teacher training and collaboration in the arts and creative 
industries. The UK now has an Education cooperation MOU with Thailand which was signed in 2016 
and around 6,500 students take part in educational programmes in the UK each year. We are also 
keen to collaborate with Th ailand on tech, through the UK 's new Digital Trade Network in the Asia 
Pacific region, an investment of £8m with one of our key resources based in Thailand.  
4.100.   The United Kingdom looks forward to continuing to collaborate with Thailand as our bilateral 
Joint Trade Review process nears conclusion. In closing, allow me to extend our warmest wishes for 
a successful WTO trade policy review and to thank you for your engagement with this process and 
the World Trade Organization.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.101.   On behalf of the Europ ean Union, I would first like to welcome the delegation of Thailand led 
by Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote (Minister, Permanent Mission of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO, 
Bangkok Office). I would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Thaila nd for 
their reports. Let me extend also our appreciation to the Discussant, H.E. Ms Silvia Elena Alfaro 
Espinosa (Ambassador of Peru) for giving us her views on the main economic and trade trends in 
Thailand and on the opportunities and challenges ahead. The EU welcomes this opportunity to 
discuss developments in Thailand's trade and economic policies and business environment since its 
previous WTO Trade Policy Review in 2015.  
4.102.   The EU and Thailand have a long -standing and well -developed economic relationship. The 
EU continues to be among Thailand 's top trading partners, and our bilateral trade flows continue 
steadily increasing. To give some examples, from 2014 until 2018, both EU exports to Thailand and 
EU imports from Thailand increased by aroun d 28%, and continued growing in 2019 (based on EU -27 
data). The EU remains one of the four biggest Thailand 's exports destination (9.6%) and shares 
8.8% of total Thailand 's imports. At the same time, Thailand is one of the most important 
destinations of EU  investments within ASEAN countries and the fifth largest source of FDI inflows in 
Thailand.  
4.103.   The EU and Thailand also share a strong commitment to the WTO, and we look forward to 
further working together to strengthen the rule -based multilateral trading s ystem. We would like to 
congratulate Thailand for the ratification of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2015 and for 
the acceptance of the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement in 2016. We also welcome Thailand 's 
engagement in the WTO on -going discus sions on e -commerce.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.104.   The COVID -19 pandemic is a far -reaching shock bearing serious short and long -term 
consequences on the economy and on trade worldwide. It has strongly hit the traditional growth 
engines of Thailand 's economy, relying on exports, tourism  and private consumption. The Thai 
authorities reacted quickly in adopting short -term measures to address the economic and social 
fallout of the crisis.  
4.105.   In terms of medium and long -term perspectives, the Thai Government has called for 
amending the 20 -Year National Strategy, launched in 2017, which aims to achieve high -income 
status by 2036 and transform Thailand into a digital, value -added, innovative and knowledge -based 
economy, notably through the Thailand 4.0 strategy. In this respect, Thailand has iden tified as key 
priorities the following areas: community level economic development, enhancing competitiveness, 
upgrading human resources and infrastructure development.  
4.106.   The EU commends this reorientation of Thailand 's economic policies and encourages Thai land 
to ensure that these overarching directions are translated into concrete actions delivering tangible 
results. Notably, the EU wishes to highlight the key importance of carrying out deeper structural 
reforms in order to achieve long -lasting impacts, co ntribute to a sustainable socio -economic recovery 
from the pandemic and enable growth in the longer run, avoiding the middle -income trap.  
4.107.   In this regard, in our written questions we have flagged a number of issues on which the EU 
has questions or concerns,  and we call on Thailand to review its relevant policies and measures with 
a view at furthering the openness, effectiveness and predictability of its trade environment – and in 
turn strengthen its position in the global economy.  
4.108.   Our written comments cover  several areas of Thailand 's economic and trade policies, among 
which let me recall some issues that would represent crucial enabling factors for a stronger economic 
and business environment in Thailand.  
4.109.   Namely:  
• for services and investment, lifting forei gn ownership restrictions (notably concerning the 
Foreign Business Act and specific regulations) and opening up to new technology and 
knowhow -based investment;  
• For government procurement, ensuring transparency, non -discrimination, competition and 
fairness  in procurement processes.  
 
4.110.   On the regulatory environment, including on taxation and on competition, having in place 
robust legal frameworks, developed in a transparent manner and with the involvement of all 
concerned stakeholders, and ensuring their effec tive and impartial implementation and enforcement.  
4.111.   While we note ongoing efforts to pursue targeted initiatives in specific sectors or 
geographical zones, for instance through investment incentives, we call on Thailand to broaden and 
simplify them so to c over the whole economy, thereby maximizing their intended outcomes. We also 
welcome initiatives undertaken by Thailand to reform and modernize the regulatory environment in 
various areas, such as the adoption of new regulations on procurement and competiti on over the 
last years. However, the discretionary space left to the administration in establishing secondary 
legislation and managing enforcement continues to be a concern for foreign economic operators. 
Reducing such discretionality, including through en hanced transparency and digitalisation, would 
play a key role in establishing a more attractive business environment.   
4.112.   The EU is confident that this TPR will help Thailand in reviewing its own policies. Looking 
ahead, we hope that Thailand will continue to  increase liberalization in the sectors that can most 
contribute to enhancing its competitiveness and to further integrating in international supply chains 
– to the benefit of the Thai economy and society as a whole.  
4.113.   On behalf of the EU, I wish Thailand a  very productive and successful review.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.114.   I would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegates who are in Geneva as well as in 
Bangkok for the 8th (eighth) Trade Policy Review of Thailand. In particular, I would like to thank WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  Minister Rac havitch Piyapramote, Permanent Representative of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO in 
Bangkok Office, for his comprehensive presentation.  
4.115.   My special appreciation also goes to Ambassador Silvia Alfaro for her contribution as a 
discussant and Ambassador Sunanta and her team for their hard work.  
4.116.   Turning to the Thai economy, Korea is pleased to note that the Thai economy grew at an 
annual average rate of 3.4% between 2015 and 2019.  
4.117.   However, the Thai economy faced an economic downturn in 2019 and this year, its ec onomic 
difficulties have been exacerbated by the adverse impact of the COVID -19 pandemic. To mitigate 
the pandemic 's effects, the Thai Government has taken various actions including the COVID -19 
Relief Package as well as monetary measures.  
4.118.   It is our since re hope that Thailand will address this unprecedented challenge in a 
cooperative way through the multilateral trading system.  
4.119.   In addition to responding to the immediate threats of the pandemic, Thailand has 
implemented the Twelfth National Economic and Soc ial Development Plan (NESDP) 2017 -2021, in 
line with the 20 -Year National Strategy (2018 -2037), which is a long -term vision for structural 
reform to address challenges such as domestic constraints.  
4.120.   In terms of international fora, Korea takes note of Thailand 's efforts to support the 
rules-based multilateral trading system. Thailand has played a pivotal role in trade cooperation, both 
as the chair of the ASEAN Committee in Geneva and the chair of the WTO General Council during 
the review period. Since its 7th (seventh) TPR, Thailand has concluded two Free Trade Agreements, 
with Chile and with Hong Kong, China, respectively.  
4.121.   Korea and Thailand have maintained a strong bilateral economic relationship with the 
Korea -ASEAN FTA. The Regional Comprehensive E conomic Partnership, which was recently signed 
by Asian leaders, will provide an opportunity to strengthen the relationship among participating 
countries.  
4.122.   Between Korea and Thailand, the bilateral investment treaty and double taxation avoidance 
agreement e ntered into force in 1989 and 2007, respectively.  
4.123.   In terms of more specific sectoral cooperation, both countries ' customs agencies have signed 
a mutual recognition arrangement for the Authorized Economic Operator program in 2006, which 
facilitates interna tional trade. Going forward, Korea has high hopes that this bilateral relationship 
will keep growing through various kinds of cooperation.  
4.124.   Korea has submitted written questions on various aspects of Thailand 's trade policy including 
anti-dumping measures and specific trade concerns and is grateful for Thailand 's timely written 
response.  
4.125.   I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate some points which we further seek Thailand 's 
productive and positive responses to.  
4.126.   First, Korea n otes that about 70% of the anti -dumping measures currently in force in 
Thailand are those that have been extended beyond their sunset period. Taking into account these 
measures ' adverse effects on trade, taking more prudent approaches in the anti -dumping r eview 
process would be recommended.  
4.127.   Second, we are concerned that foreign securities companies which operate their businesses 
in Thailand are subject to frequent audits by the Securities and Exchange Commission. We would 
like to kindly request Thailand to  consider providing audit guidelines for better predictability.  
4.128.   Lastly, many Korean companies are facing difficulties in exporting medical equipment and 
wireless communication equipment to the Thai market due to non -tariff measures, especially owing 
to the  excessive costs and complexities caused by the certification process. In this regard, Korea WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  would like to encourage Thailand to improve its institutional framework for standards and conformity 
assessment.  
4.129.   Korea would like to once again highlight Thailand 's efforts to make the overall trading 
environment more open, transparent, and efficient. Let me conclude by expressing my deep 
appreciation to the delegation of Thailand for its hard work and wishing the delegation every success 
in this TPR.  
MYANMAR  ON BEHALF  OF ASEAN  
4.130.   On behalf of ASEAN, Myanmar is honoured to deliver the ASEAN Statement.  
4.131.   We would like to extend a very warm welcome to His Excellency Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote 
and his delegation. We also thank the Secretariat for their effort in preparing comprehensive review 
reports, and the discussant, H.E. Silvia Alfaro of Peru for her insightful comments.  
4.132.   Thailand is a founding Member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). 
ASEAN was established with the signing of the ASEAN Declaration in Bangkok, Thailand on 
8 August  1967. Since then, Thailand has actively contributed to ASEAN 's regional integration and 
cooperation efforts as set out in the ASEAN Economic Blueprint (AEC) 2025 Blueprint.  
4.133.   During its ASEAN chairmanship in 2019, driven by the theme of "Advancing Partnership for 
Sustainability ", Thailand successfully facilitated the accomplishment of key priority economic 
deliverables, such as:  
i. ASEAN Digital Integration Framework Action Plan;  
ii. ASEAN Innovation Roadmap 2019 -2025: Partnering fo r Innovative Community;  
iii. Guidelines on Skilled Labor/Professional Services Development in Response to the Fourth  
iv. Industrial Revolution (4IR);  
v. ASEAN Declaration on Industrial Transformation to Industry 4.0;  
vi. Digitalisation of ASEAN Micro Enterprises;  
vii. ASEAN Si ngle Window (ASW);  
viii. Promoting Sustainable Fisheries through ASEAN Cooperation; and  
ix. Roadmap for ASEAN Sustainable Capital Markets.  
 
4.134.   In addition to this, Thailand together with other ASEAN Member States had worked tirelessly 
towards the substantial conclusion of the 20 Chapters under the Regional Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership (RCEP), and was also instrumental towards the full conclusion and signing on the RCEP 
Agreement during the 37th ASEAN Summit on 15 November 2020,  
4.135.   Thailand is th e seventh -largest economy in Asia, and the second largest in ASEAN. In 2019, 
Thailand 's total trade amounted to USD 483.2 billion, increasing by 15.8% from 2015. Thailand's 
two-way trade in goods and services represented 110% of its GDP in 2019, reflecting  the country's 
outward -orientation and integration into global value chains.  
4.136.   Between 2015 and 2019, Thailand 's trade with other ASEAN Members accounted for 27.6% 
of its total trade volume. It has continued to pursue its economic integration agenda within ASEAN 
where progress is being made towards the consolidation of the ASEAN Economic Community.  
4.137.   Since its last Review in 2015, Thailand has reported changes in its customs regime and 
adopted a new Customs Act (2017) to simplify customs procedures and improve  transparency. It 
also ratified the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and has now implemented 97.1% of its 
commitments. In addition, Thailand has implemented reforms to its IP system, aimed at boosting 
performance in the areas of science, technology and inn ovation.  
4.138.   ASEAN notes the issuance of the National Strategy (2018 -2037) by the new Thai 
Government, which underpins the country 's development policy, Thailand 4.0. The latter aims at 
transforming Thailand into a value -added, innovative, and knowledge -based economy through the 
promotion of innovation and development of new technology -based industries.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.139.   ASEAN recognizes the active engagement and commitment of Thailand to the rules -based 
multilateral trading system, which enables stable and sustainable internati onal economic growth. 
Over the review period, Thailand actively engaged in various WTO negotiations, discussions and 
regular work, including on WTO reform, fisheries subsidies, electronic commerce and domestic 
regulation. The Chairmanship of Thailand 's Permanent Representative to the WTO, H.E. Sunanta 
Kangvalkulkij, in the Dispute Settlement Body in 2018 and the General Council in 2019 demonstrates 
the significant contribution of Thailand to the WTO. During Thailand's ASEAN Chairmanship year in 
2019, Thaila nd also successfully chaired the ASEAN Committee in Geneva.  
4.140.   Together with Thailand, ASEAN reaffirms our strong commitment to uphold an open, 
inclusive, transparent, non -discriminatory and rules -based multilateral trading system as embodied 
in the WTO. Duri ng this time difficult time caused by the unintended consequences of the COVID -19 
pandemic, Thailand together with ASEAN are committed towards building economic resilience within 
the region through the newly adopted ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework ( ACRF) that was 
launched by the ASEAN Leaders during the recent 37th ASEAN Summit on 12 November 2020. One 
of the commitments made by ASEAN is to keep our market opens especially on essential goods and 
to ensure uninterrupted supply chain within the region.   
4.141.   Some ASEAN Member States have submitted written questions to Thailand and we would 
like to express our appreciation in advance and look forward to their written responses.  
4.142.   We would also like to thank the delegation for their constructive engagement, and we wish 
Thailand a successful eighth Trade Policy Review.  
MYANMAR  
4.143.   Myanmar aligns itself with the ASEAN Statement.  
4.144.   At the outset, on behalf of Myanmar delegation, I wish to welcome the Secretariat report 
and the report of the Royal Thai Government to this 8th Trade Policy Review.  
4.145.   We also wish to express our appreciation to Thailand for its comprehensive responses to the 
written questions of Myanmar.  
4.146.   Secondly, Myanmar commend Thailand for its key Development Policies and related 
Strategies in implementing i ts National Economic and Social Development Plan (NESDP) 2017 -2021, 
Industrial Development Plan (2017 -2036) and COVID 19 related Trade and Investment Policies and 
Measures.  
4.147.   Myanmar and Thailand have long standing good neighbourliness relationships and mut ual 
beneficial cooperation in the areas of economic and social developments since historical times.  
4.148.   The bilateral trade between Myanmar and Thailand has been growing gradually with the 
increased imports from Thailand to Myanmar.  
4.149.   Globally, Thailand is Mya nmar's second largest trading partner and third largest investor in 
the country whereas Thailand is Myanmar 's top trading partner in the region.  
4.150.   Both countries have also been cooperating in bilateral, regional and multilateral fora. We 
believe that there still exist potentials to further enhance bilateral trade between our two countries.  
4.151.   Through this TPR process, we have seen Thailand 's commitment for progressive liberalization 
in its trade and investment regime. We congratulate Thailand for its World 's No.3 position among 
190 countries in the World Bank 's Doing Business Report 2020.  
4.152.   Before I conclude, I wish to express our appreciation to Thailand for its support in multilateral 
trading system, necessary reform measures and transparency in the WTO while t aking into 
consideration of the LDC 's vulnerability and requirements.  
4.153.   Finally, I wish to express our thanks to Thailand for its comprehensive responses to our 
questions and wish its 8th Trade Policy Review a great success.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  SINGAPORE  
4.154.   The Singapore delegatio n welcomes the Thai delegation, including those who are 
participating virtually from Bangkok. We thank Thailand for the comprehensive Government report 
and statement. We also thank TPRB Chair, Ambassador Harald Aspelund, the Secretariat, and the 
discussant , Ambassador Silva Alfaro Espinosa of Peru, for their insightful perspectives.  
4.155.   At the outset, Singapore commends Thailand for supporting the "hybrid " TPR of the WTO. 
The monitoring function is a critical pillar of the WTO and the continuation of these act ivities, despite 
the ongoing pandemic, signals the organisation 's resilience. Allow me to make three points.  
4.156.   First, on the multilateral front, Singapore applauds Thailand for its firm commitment in 
upholding the rules -based multilateral trading system, as embodied in the WTO. In particular, we 
commend Ambassador Sunanta for her leadership as Chair of the General Council and the Dispute 
Settlement Body. Thailand has been a constructive voice in the WTO 's regular committees. Thailand 
is also active in the Joi nt Statement Initiatives, which have made significant headway this year, 
despite the challenging circumstances.  
4.157.   Second, on the regional front, Thailand has made significant contributions within ASEAN. 
Under its Chairmanship in 2019, we concluded key elements of the Regional Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement, which was signed last week (16 November). RCEP covers 
close to 30% of the global population and 29% of global GDP, and is testament to the value of 
multilateralism, free and open  trade, and connected supply chains. During Thailand 's Chairmanship 
of ASEAN, all ASEAN Member States came onboard the ASEAN Single Window and signed the ASEAN 
Protocol on Enhanced Dispute Settlement Mechanism.  
4.158.   Thailand also advanced ASEAN 's digital integr ation agenda. This was done through the 
Digital Integration Framework Action Plan 2019 –2025 and deliverables on the Fourth Industrial 
Revolution. These initiatives strengthen ASEAN cooperation in areas such as industrial 
transformation, digital trade facil itation, data connectivity and payments, and provide a strong 
foundation towards a single regional digital economy in ASEAN.  
4.159.   Third, on the bilateral front, Singapore and Thailand share warm and longstanding bilateral 
relations. Our bilateral trade remains robust, despite the COVID -19 pandemic. In the five -year period 
from 2014 to 2019, bilateral trade grew by 3.2% to USD 23.4 billion in 2019.  Our companies remain 
keen to invest in Thailand. In 2018, Singapore 's stock investments in Thailand amounted to 
US 19.3 billion, representing a 28.9% increase since 2014. Additionally, Singapore and Thailand 
share close people -to-people relations. In 2019, there were around 1 million visitors from Singapore 
to Thailand, an d around half a million visitors from Thailand to Singapore.  
4.160.   To conclude, Singapore will continue to strengthen our cooperation with Thailand, on the 
multilateral, regional and bilateral fronts. We wish Thailand every success for this TPR.  
UKRAINE  
4.161.   Our del egation is pleased to participate in the 8th Trade Policy Review (TPR) of Thailand, 
which gives a good opportunity to understand the full range of the country 's trade policies and 
practices, recent economic developments since its last Review in 2016 and th eir impact on the 
functioning of the multilateral trading system.  
4.162.   I would like to warmly welcome the delegation of Thailand led by Mr. Rachavitch 
Piyapramote, and express appreciation to the Thai team for its constructive engagement in this TPR 
exercise. U kraine also appreciates the substantial work of the TPRB Chair and the WTO Secretariat, 
the meaningful analysis of the discussant, H.E. Ms. Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa.  
4.163.   Ukraine commends Thailand for its positive economic performance represented by solid 
growth of the Thai economy till 2019, intention to meet the target of free and open trade and 
investment, reduction of some of tariff rates for goods that are subject to tariff peaks.  
4.164.   Ukraine also acknowledges efforts of the Government of Thailand in impl ementation of 
accommodative fiscal and monetary policies to support economic growth and measures taken to WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  tackle difficulties caused by the adverse impact of the COVID -19 pandemic during 2020. We wish 
Thailand to successfully address current threats to its  economic performance and challenges and to 
achieve its structural reform for further sustained economic growth by increasing investment, 
implementing policies to enhance innovation, productivity and competitiveness, and pursuing the 
liberalization of trad e. 
4.165.   Ukraine notes importance of international trade in the Thai economy and maintaining 
position of Thailand as the world's 19th largest exporter and the 17th largest importer of goods, and 
the 12th and 16th among the world's top exporters and importers of commercial services. We believe 
that Thailand will keep its market open and predictable, despite the pandemic.  
4.166.   The Ukrainian side recognizes Thailand`s commitment and strong support of the rules -based 
multilateral trading system providing for stability an d sustainability of international economic 
growth. We highly value active engagement of Thailand in WTO activities and participation in 
discussions under the Work Programme on Electronic Commerce, co -sponsored the Joint Statement 
on E-commerce Initiative e tc. We note achievement of Thailand in the implementation of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement - at a rate of more than 94.1%.  
4.167.   Thailand is an important partner of Ukraine. In 2019 the Ukrainian -Thai trade in goods 
amounted to USD 540.0 million ( ↑ 26.4% compara bly to 2018), exports - USD 322.1 million, imports 
- USD 217.9 million. However, due to the COVID -19 crisis, as of January -July 2020, our bilateral 
trade contracted by 41.7% (USD 186.6 million), exports of goods decreased by ↓ 59.2%, 
(USD  79.8 million), im ports by ↓ 14.3% (USD 106.8 million).  
4.168.   As of the 1st July 2020, Thailand 's investment to Ukraine amounted to USD 5.1 million.  
4.169.   For both trade and investment flows, Ukraine believes that the potential for further 
expansion remains substantial. Inauguration of  work of the Joint Commission on Trade Issues shall 
become an effective instrument for the development of bilateral trade and economic relations 
between the two countries and give a powerful impetus to enhancing of bilateral trade.  
4.170.   The reports of the Gove rnment of Thailand and the WTO Secretariat raised questions in a 
number of areas – as detailed in Ukraine`s written submissions to this Review. The main themes 
addressed were customs procedures, simplification of tariff structure, price regulation and cont rol, 
regulations on banking and other financial services, results of the investment promotion strategy, 
COVID -19 related policies and measures, electronic commerce etc.  
4.171.   While expressing gratitude for given responses, Ukraine is looking forward to developin g 
further partnership and enhanced trade between both countries and wishes Thailand successful TPR.   
THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.172.   On behalf of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, I would  
first like to extend our warm welcome to the Thai delegation led by His Excellency 
Minister  Piyapramote. We expect to have a successful 8th TPR for Thailand.  
4.173.   As noted in both reports of Thai Government and the Secretariat, since its previous Review 
in 2016, Thailand has maintained macro -financial stability and remarkable economic growth, with 
minor inflation, a sizeable current account surplus, and a sound financial system, among other 
positive signals. We congratulate Thailand on these healthy and stable  performances. Like other 
Members, Thailand is also affected by the COVID -19 pandemic, especially in its manufacturing and 
tourism sectors. However, we believe the Relief Package and various structural reform measures 
launched by the Thai Government will b e effective in weathering the storm and building a more 
resilient economy.  
4.174.   Regarding our bilateral trade relations, despite the global economic downturn and trade 
tensions that have negatively impacted our bilateral trade, we still observe in general a he althy and 
growing trend in the trading relationship. For the year 2019, Thailand was our 13th largest trading 
partner, with total bilateral trade amounting to USD 9.8 billion. It was also the 12th largest 
destination for our exports and our 16th largest so urce of imports. Furthermore, Thailand is a major 
destination for our outbound investments in Southeast Asia, concentrated mainly on manufacturing WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  sectors such as chemicals, electrical, electronics, textiles, food and others. We believe Thailand 's 
open and  transparent regime will lead to further growth in our bilateral trade and investment 
relations in the future. In particular, we commend the Thailand Government on its ambitions to 
improve the openness of its trade and investment regime since the previous Review, and the 
progress already made. We also believe that Thailand 's policies on structural reform and its 
development plans for the digital economy - smart cities and the global supply chain, which include 
the "Thailand 4.0 " and the Eastern Economic Cor ridor (EEC) - will create more business opportunities 
for both of us.  
4.175.   Having said this, I would just like to make some requests or to highlight a few areas in which 
we would encourage the Thai Government to consider making more progress in its reform:  
4.176.   First, in 2016 the Thailand Government initiated the project called "Regulatory Guillotine " to 
review its existing laws, rules and regulations in order to ensure greater efficiency. The first stage 
focused on streamlining the complex processes of licensing and  permit issuing, and regulatory 
procedures. It would be appreciated if the Thai Government could share with us the results of this 
project so far and the future steps planned for streamlining the requirements for licensing and permit 
process.  
4.177.   Second, Thai  Government has set the "10 Targeted Industries " to be Thailand 's new 
economic growth engines to help Thailand 's achievement of its structural reform. We would 
appreciate if Thailand can explain whether and to what extent subsidies from the government have  
a role to play in supporting the "10 Targeted Industries ". 
4.178.   Third, Thailand applies import licensing and other requirements on various products on the 
grounds of public -health, national economic security, and IP protection, among others. While we 
respect i ts authority to apply these requirements, we think there is still room for further relaxation. 
We therefore encourage the Thai Government to take a further look at the requirements currently 
applied on products such as building stones, used motor vehicles,  re-treaded tyres, printing and 
colour copier machines, electrical appliances and others.  
4.179.   Forth, according to the Secretariat 's report, "a foreign commercial bank may be established 
in Thailand either as a branch or as a subsidiary. " The Report also indic ates that foreign investors in 
commercial banking are still subject to the licensing requirements and foreign ownership limits as 
prescribed under the Financial Institutions Business Act (FIBA). However, according to Thailand 's 
written responses, it will n ot be granting new licenses in the near future and further liberalization is 
being considered only through bilateral negotiations under the Qualified ASEAN Banks (QAB) 
framework. We would urge the Thai Government to consider further liberalizing its bankin g sector 
for other WTO Members which are not able to access to the QAB.    
4.180.   Fifth, we support and are very interested in Thailand 's Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) 
project for the development of a high value -added, high technology and innovative economy. We 
understand that various generous incentives are available to investors destined for the Corridor. 
However, we believe that transparent procedures, clear timelines and reasonable requirements in 
relation to investment approval and environmental impact asses sment are indispensable to the 
ultimate success of this project.  
4.181.   We thank Thailand for its written responses to our questions. At the same time, we would 
greatly appreciate receiving more details of other opportunities accessible to potential investors.  
4.182.   Finally, I would like to express again our sincere wish for a constructive and successful TPR. 
We look forward to closer and more mutually beneficial economic ties with Thailand.  
JAPAN  
4.183.   Let me first extend a warm welcome to this Eighth TPR meeting to the distinguished 
delegation of Thailand headed by Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote, Minister, Permanent Mission of 
Thailand to the WTO and WIPO. We truly appreciate that the Thai delegation has sh own great 
flexibility by agreeing to hold this TPR meeting via a virtual format under the current circumstances. 
We are thankful for the answers to our written questions and look forward to hearing reply from 
Thailand on one remaining question we just re -submitted. Also, we sincerely appreciate the WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  dedicated efforts made by Thailand and the WTO Secretariat to prepare the insightful reports shared 
with the members in advance of today's review.  
4.184.   Thailand is a very important trading partner for Japan. In 2019, Thailand is Japan 's sixth 
largest trading partner, and trade between our two countries reached a value of USD 57 billion in 
total. On investment, Japan continues to be one of the top foreign direct investors to Thailand, and 
FDI from Japan amounted to USD 5.1 billion in 2019. In addition, Thailand is the sixth largest 
investor to Japan.  
4.185.   We acknowledge that Thailand has achieved relatively stable economic conditions and 
positive growth over the period under review. During 2020, however, all of our economies have been 
facing difficulties due to the COVID -19 pandemic. Thailand 's main industries, such as the automobile 
sector and the tourism sector, have been particularly hard hit. We look forward to seeing Thailand 
recovering quickly and "building back better " by advancing such measures as structural reforms and 
fiscal reform.  
4.186.   Turning to trade policy, Thailand has concluded 16 Regional Trade Agreements, including 
our Japan -Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement, while continuing to actively negotiate for new 
bilateral FTAs. Looking at recent advancements, we welcome the entry into force in August of the 
First Protocol to amend the ASEAN -JAPAN Comprehensive Economic Partnership. Also, we are 
pleased that the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership was signed  on 15 November. We 
look forward to further increasing trade and investment between Thailand and Japan by practicing 
these agreements. We believe that Thailand 's efforts and cooperation under RTAs will contribute to 
further strengthening the Multilateral T rading System.  
4.187.   The Secretariat report notes that Thailand ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2015 
and has improved its customs regimes since the last review. In this context, we acknowledge the 
progress Thailand has made by managing to implement  97.1% of its TFA commitment, and we look 
forward to seeing Thailand continuing to work for the full implementation. We also welcome 
Thailand 's participation in plurilateral frameworks under the WTO such as the expansion of the ITA. 
Overall, Japan highly a ppreciates Thailand 's efforts for trade liberalization. We look forward to 
Thailand actively and continuously engaging in, and further participating in multilateral as well as 
plurilateral frameworks under the WTO, including discussions/negotiations within  the Joint 
Statement Initiative for further pursuing trade liberalization and strengthening of the Multilateral 
Trading System.  
4.188.   With regard to trade related measures under the COVID -19 pandemic, we recognize that 
Thailand adopted measures such as export ba ns on surgical masks. We encourage Thailand to 
continue to align its measures with the principle agreed on at the ASEAN Plus Three Summit of 
"ensuring that measures deemed necessary for public health emergency response are targeted, 
proportionate, transpar ent and temporary and that they do not create unnecessary barriers to trade 
or disruption to regional supply chains, and are consistent with WTO rules. "  
4.189.   In conclusion, we firmly believe that by observing its commitments to the WTO, Thailand 
will be well p laced to pursue an open, transparent and non -discriminatory market for its 
development. And, again we appreciate Thailand 's flexibility to agree to hold this TPR meeting today 
by virtual format. We wish Thailand a successful and productive TPR and look for ward to hearing of 
further progress regarding its trade and investment policies at its next TPR.  
INDIA  
4.190.   My delegation is pleased to participate in the 8th Trade Policy Review of Thailand. I wish to 
welcome the delegation of Thailand led by Mr. Rachavitch P iyapramote, Minister, Permanent Mission 
of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO, Bangkok Office; H.E. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Ambassador and 
Permanent Representative of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO and her team in Geneva for the TPR. 
We thank Mr. Rachavitch Piyapra mote for his comprehensive opening statement, Ambassador 
H.E. Ms Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa of Peru, for her insightful observations as a Discussant, and the 
Secretariat and the Government of Thailand for the reports prepared for the review.  
4.191.   We are pleas ed to note from the Secretariat 's report that during the period under review, 
Thailand has maintained macro -financial stability, supported by prudent fiscal and monetary policies. WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  The stable and continuous growth witnessed between 2015 and 2019 has enabled  Thailand to join 
the upper -middle -income group of countries. We wish to complement the Thai Government and its 
people on their economic success.  
4.192.   India and Thailand share centuries old ties of friendship and cultural linkages. The 
relationship is rooted in  history and extensive people to people linkages. Today, India 's relations 
with Thailand are multi -dimensional. India 's "Look East" policy and Thailand 's "Look West* policy, 
which have now metamorphosed into India 's "Act East" and Thailand 's "Act West" pol icies are 
strongly contributing to consolidation of bilateral relations, including economic and commercial 
linkages. India 's partnership with Thailand also has a strong regional dimension in the context of 
India's engagement with ASEAN and membership of gr oupings such as BIMSTEC, Mekong Ganga 
Cooperation (MGC) and Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD). There have been regular high -level 
exchanges between the two countries in the recent years and the closer political relationship has 
contributed to a new dynamism in economic and commercial ties.  
4.193.   Trade and investment constitute a key pillar of India 's expanding relations with Thailand, 
including in the framework of India -ASEAN FTA in goods and services. The strategic location of 
Thailand in the heart of South East Asia, makes it an important partner of India and is one of our 
key gateways to the ASEAN. In the ASEAN region, Thailand ranks as India 's 5th largest trading 
partner. Bilateral trade between India and Thailand was USD 12.14 billion in 2019 with exports from  
India to Thailand at USD 4.80 billion and import from Thailand to India at USD 7.34 billion.  
4.194.   The fast -growing Indian market remains attractive for Thai investors and exporters. An Early 
Harvest Scheme (EHS), covering 83 products, under the India -Thailand Comprehensive Economic 
Cooperation Agreement (CECA), in place since September 2004, has significantly contributed to the 
growth in our bilateral trade. The ASEAN -India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITGA), which came into 
effect from 1 January 2010 has resulte d in expanding our bilateral trade and its proposed review will 
make it make even more user -friendly, simple and trade facilitative for businesses.  
4.195.   Beyond trade, our investment ties have grown rapidly with two -way investments in sector 
such as IT, pharmac euticals chemical, food processing, infrastructure, automotive, engineering 
goods, and hospitality. Quite a large number of our businesses are thriving in each other 's market. 
The expanding connectivity between both the countries, though land, air and sea have helped both 
our commercial as well as the people -to-people linkages.  
4.196.   We are committed to strengthening trade and investment partnership with Thailand. Both 
countries have established institutional mechanisms and agreements for promoting trade and 
investment between them and we remain actively engaged to address the bilateral market access 
issues including the export of Indian bovine meet, marine products including shrimps, 
pharmaceuticals, poultry products, agricultural products such as blueberry, stra wberry, kiwi fruit, 
potato, lemon, okra, brown rice, black tea etc. We are confident that through these engagements, 
both countries can resolve their respective trade concerns and achieve mutually beneficial trade 
exchanges in the future.  I would like to t hank the Thai delegation for providing answers to the 
questions raised by us for the TPR, which will be reviewed by our Capital.  
4.197.   Chair, before I conclude I wish to applaud the commitment of Thailand to the multilateral 
trading system and highlight the vast  potential for further strengthening the trade and investment 
ties between our two countries, given the natural affinities we share. We look forward to closely 
working with the Thai authorities and their delegation in Geneva to strengthen our bilateral eco nomic 
cooperation, as well as to strengthen the multilateral trading system. I wish our Thai friends a 
productive and successful TPR.  
COLOMBIA  
4.198.   En nombre del Embajador de Colombia, el Sr. Santiago Wills, deseamos expresar nuestro 
saludo a la distinguida del egación de Tailandia que "está conectada " el día de hoy, encabezada por 
el ministro de la Misión Permanente de Tailandia para la OMC y OMPI, el Sr. Rachavitch Piyapramote, 
y a su Embajadora Sra. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij. También queremos agradecer a la Secret aría por el 
informe y a la Embajadora Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa (Perú) por las pertinentes contribuciones 
realizadas.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.199.   Tailandia es una economía interesante de la que hay mucho por aprender. Durante el periodo 
del análisis ha tenido grandes cambios estru cturales, incluyendo el fallecimiento de su Majestad el 
Rey Bhumibol Adulyadej en 2016, la adopción de una nueva Constitución en 2017, y la celebración 
de elecciones generales en 2019 después de 5 años sin acudir a las urnas.  
4.200.   Con todo esto, la economía ta ilandesa se mantuvo estable y pujante. Durante el periodo de 
2015 a 2019 creció a un promedio del 3,4% en términos reales, registró un superávit en su cuenta 
corriente que le llevó a una importante acumulación de divisas, y mantuvo una inflación global y 
básica por debajo de los límites previstos por su Banco Central.  
4.201.   Tailandia también se caracteriza por su orientación al comercio internacional de bienes y 
servicios, así como por su exitosa integración en las cadenas globales de valor. Esto es evidente si 
registramos que el comercio internacional representó un 110% del PIB nacional en 2019. Su 
estructura exportadora continuó dominada por las manufacturas con el 73,3% del total, mientras 
que los productos agropecuarios constituyeron el 17,5%. Sin embargo, es  necesario destacar la 
importancia del sector agropecuario tailandés pues es un exportador neto de estos productos y uno 
de los principales productores mundiales de algunos cultivos.  
4.202.   Otro aspecto que quisiera resaltar de la economía tailandesa es el desem peño que tuvo en 
las exportaciones de servicios durante el periodo del examen. Del 2015 al 2019 mantuvo un 
superávit constante, compuesto principalmente por su exitosa industria turística que representó el 
79,4% de las exportaciones totales. El informe de la Secretaría también resalta la solidez de los 
servicios financieros tailandeses y la modernización de sus servicios e infraestructura de 
telecomunicaciones, dos sectores que aun cuando tuvieron una contribución relativamente baja en 
las exportaciones, fo rtaleció la resiliencia de Tailandia frente a choques externos.  
4.203.   Desafortunadamente, la pandemia acontecida en el 2020 alteró fuertemente esa senda de 
crecimiento, al punto que el Banco Central estimó una contracción de la economía del 8,1% en este 
año. Además, al igual que en todos los países del mundo, la pandemia ace ntuó algunos retos que 
requieren especial atención del Gobierno. Quisiera resaltar tres de estos retos. Primero, la 
concentración de las exportaciones de bienes y servicios. La contracción del comercio mundial afectó 
las exportaciones automotrices y las ca denas de suministros mundiales, además las restricciones al 
movimiento de personas fueron  devastador as para el turismo, tres renglones cruciales para el 
comercio internacional de Tailandia.  
4.204.   Segundo, existen grandes retos en materia de competitividad y de informalidad laboral, que 
sumados al envejecimiento de la población hace prever la necesidad de una reforma fiscal completa. 
Y tercero, hay problemas en materia de desigualdad de ingresos y de desarrollo regional, un 
problema que afrontamos todos los paíse s en desarrollo.  
4.205.   Por supuesto, el gobierno tailandés y el Banco Central son conscientes de todos estos retos, 
por lo que han implementado medidas de choque de política monetaria y de apoyo interno que 
representan aproximadamente el 14% del PIB. Esto, junt o con la política de modernización 
productiva "Tailandia 4.0 " y las importantes reformas en áreas como Propiedad Intelectual, 
Competencia, y Contratación Pública, genera gran optimismo sobre el futuro del país.  
4.206.   Tailandia ha tenido un papel bastante constructivo en la OMC. Fue socio fundador de la 
Organización, aceptó el protocolo de enmienda al ADPIC, notificó beneficios bajo el waiver de 
servicios para los PMA, es parte del ATI y su expansión, y ratificó el Acue rdo de Facilitación del 
Comercio con un 90% de compromisos en la categoría A. Adicionalmente, hace parte de la Iniciativa 
Ministerial Conjunta sobre Comercio Electrónico y recientemente formalizó su participación en la 
Iniciativa de Regulación Doméstica en  Servicios. También considero importante reconocer que en el 
Informe del gobierno del presente examen incluyeron una sección sobre MiPyMEs, que contiene 
información detalladas sobre el rol de estas empresas en su economía y las políticas adoptadas para 
favorecer su participación en el comercio internacional.   
4.207.   No puedo dejar pasar esta oportunidad sin resaltar que el análisis que el informe de la 
Secretaría y el del Gobierno hacen sobre la importancia del sector de pesca en la economía tailandesa 
y en sus ex portaciones. El país ha adoptado importantes medidas para luchar contra la pesca ilegal, 
no declarada, y no reglamentada (pesca INDNR) y consideramos muy útil contar con información 
detallada sobre el tema. En 2017 Tailandia modificó su Ley de Pesca y ahor a contiene sanciones más WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  fuertes para prevenir la pesca ilegal. Colombia presentó varias preguntas sobre este tema y 
agradeceremos las respuestas que nos puedan dar.  
4.208.   La relación bilateral entre Tailandia y Colombia ha sido limitada. En 2019 el comercio 
agregado entre los dos países fue del orden de los USD 318 millones, de los cuales 
USD 283,8  millones corresponden a las importaciones que recibimos de Tailandia y 
USD 34,4 millones fueron exportaciones colombianas a Tailandia, aunque resalto que el 49% 
corresponden a exportaciones no minero -energéticas. Existe un gran interés de Colombia por 
fortalecer los lazos comerciales con Tailandia, lo que nos llevó a presentar un gran número de 
preguntas en el marco de este examen comercial, particularmente en áreas c omo OTC, MSF, 
Servicios, y Propiedad Intelectual. Agradecemos las respuestas que ya nos han dado para algunas 
de ellas.  
4.209.   Deseo finalizar deseándole a Tailandia el mayor de los éxitos en su examen de política 
comercial y animamos a sus representantes para c ontinuar con su participación constructiva al 
interior de la OMC en pro de un mejor y más incluyente funcionamiento del sistema multilateral de 
comercio.  
BRAZIL  
4.210.   Let me start by welcoming the Thai delegation, headed by Minister Piyapramote, and by 
thanking  the Thai Mission to the WTO, headed by Ambassador Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, for its efforts 
and contributions to this important exercise.  
4.211.   I would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the Thai government and the WTO 
Secretariat for their reports, as well as to the discussant, Ambassador Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa 
(Peru), for her insightful observations, and you, Chair, for your opening comments.  
4.212.   The opportunity to review the trade policies of Thailand is a demonstration of the relevance 
of WTO 's monitoring pillar. Brazil, as always, attaches great importance to this exercise.  
4.213.   We start by praising Thailand for the positive economic performance in the period under 
review. Between 2015 and 2019, Thailand 's GDP increased by an annual average rate of 3.4% in 
real terms. Per capita GDP reached almost USD 8,000 in 2019, placing Thailand in the upper 
middle -income group of countries. There remain important challenges in relation to the need to 
improve income and regional disparities as well as boost the l ow levels of public and private 
investment.  
4.214.   On WTO related issues, Brazil notes that, since its last trade policy review in 2015, Thailand 
has made progress in a number of areas, including foreign direct investment and trade facilitation. 
Brazil commends t he efforts towards the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement. As 
noted in the Secretariat report, however, work still remains to be done in this area. Brazil looks 
forward to constructive engagement by Thailand on trade facilitation issues wit h a view to further 
reduce customs barriers.  
4.215.   Brazil notes that agricultural products face considerably higher tariff rates than 
non-agricultural products: the average tariffs on agricultural products (32.7%) is much higher than 
on non -agricultural products  (11.8%). This reality makes it more difficult for agricultural exports to 
get into Thailand. Additionally, we observe that tariff quotas are in place for 128 tariff lines (with 
very low fill rates among them). Brazil encourages Thailand to make use of ad -valorem rates in 
order to increase transparency.  
4.216.   Another worrisome aspect we wish to mention is that notifications on agricultural domestic 
support for the past few years remain outstanding. Thailand's latest notification to the WTO on 
domestic support cov ered the period until 2016. In light of our shared commitment to transparency, 
we encourage Thailand to promptly notify more recent measures.  
4.217.   Trade relations between Brazil and Thailand are strong. Thailand has consistently been in 
the top -20 export destin ations of Brazil and also in the top -20 origins of Brazilian imports.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.218.   In 2019, Thailand was Brazil's 4th largest trading partner in the Association of Southeast 
Asian Nations (ASEAN) and 8th in Asia. Trade between our countries totalled USD 3.2 billion. 
However, the Brazilian export basket is concentrated in commodities, mainly soy and its by -products 
(74%). The list of imports from Thailand shows greater diversification and industrial content.  
4.219.   In recent years, the bilateral economic relationship has becom e richer, with the move from 
a strictly trade dynamic to one of reciprocal investments. The Secretariat report highlights the 
significant increase in investment outflows, indicating that Thailand has become a net capital 
exporter. Indeed, Thailand has expa nded its investment network in Brazil in many important and 
diversified sectors, such as oil and gas, shrimp, electronics and luxury hotels.  
4.220.   Brazil thanks Thailand for the written replies to our questions. They were forwarded to our 
capital for examinatio n and follow -up. 
4.221.   Brazil would like to call attention to the fact that 6 of our questions, even though they were 
submitted within the stipulated deadline, have not been answered yet. These are questions that 
address the Thai sugar and sugarcane support prog rammes and the Brazilian request to export pork 
meat to the Thai market. We look forward to receiving comments on these questions from the Thai 
authorities.  
4.222.   In reference to the sugar and sugarcane support programmes, Brazil expects that the 
reforms that a re underway may be finalized soon, in a WTO -consistent manner, so that we can move 
towards a positive solution to our dispute.  
4.223.   With respect to the Brazilian request to export pork, Brazil raised a specific trade concern 
(STC) on the SPS Committee, because Brazil had not yet received from  Thai authorities the 
questionnaire that it needs to answer in order to initiate the risk analysis procedures. There has not 
been any update on the process, which began in 2016.  
4.224.   In closing, we congratulate Thailand on its e fforts to confront constraints and implement 
reforms compatible with the WTO rules. As Thailand role in the world economy evolves, Brazil is 
counting on Thailand to continue to be a force for strengthening the multilateral trading system.  
4.225.   We wish Thailand a successful trade policy review.  
TURKEY  
4.226.   We would like to welcome the Thai delegation to the eighth Trade Policy Review of Thailand.  
4.227.   We thank the WTO Secretariat and Thailand for their comprehensive reports, and our 
discussant, Ambassador Silvia Elena Alf aro Espinosa of Peru for her insightful comments.   
4.228.   Thailand is one of the most important countries in Southeast Asia.  
4.229.   As it is indicated in the reports, Thailand is an upper -middle -income country, with a 
diversified economy in which the services and indust rial sectors are the main contributors to GDP 
and exports.  
4.230.   We welcome the growth of Thailand's economy at an average rate of 3.4% annually during 
the review period. Between 2015 -2019, thanks to the Thai Government 's adoption of 
accommodative fiscal and mo netary policies, Thai economy showed a marked improvement.  
4.231.   We believe that the Thai economy will be even stronger and more competitive with the 
implementation of the Twelfth National Economic and Social Development Plan (NESDP) 2017 -2021 
and also with the 20 -Year National Strategy (2018 -2037).  
4.232.   Thailand is a very i mportant partner for Turkey in Southeast Asia and we are in close 
collaboration in various platforms. Thailand, as an important economic power, greatly contributes to 
the prosperity of its region.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.233.   In our bilateral relations we are particularly interested in cooperating in the areas of trade, 
tourism and culture. Maintaining friendly relations, we have a trade volume of USD 1,4 billion as of 
2019, which obviously does not reflect the real potential of our economies.  
4.234.   Thailand is a rising production base in the ASEAN region. For that reason, to produce for 
East and South Asia, some of our leading companies are investing in Thailand. We also see Thailand, 
as one of the key drivers for our future enhanced cooperation in the region. In this regard, we are 
workin g together on the draft "Road Map on the Framework for Comprehensive Partnership between 
Turkey and Thailand " in order to further develop our bilateral relations.  
4.235.   As the report sets out, Thailand has 13 regional and bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs) 
and two of them have entered into force during the review period. Turkey started FTA negotiations 
with Thailand in 2017. We believe that finalization of Free Trade Agreement would boost our trade 
volume.  
4.236.   Before concluding, we would like to thank Ambassador  Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, for her active 
contributions to our work and her constructive engagement in the negotiations under this roof. We 
also would like to commend her team in Geneva for the excellent cooperation between our 
delegations.  
4.237.   Turkey will contin ue its close and fruitful dialogue with Thailand in both bilateral and 
multilateral platforms.  
4.238.   We wish Thailand a successful completion of its eighth Trade Policy Review.  
SWITZERLAND  
4.239.   I wish a warm welcome to Thailand delegation led by Minister Piyapramote to this TPR. A 
warm welcome also to Ambassador Sunanta. I am furthermore grateful to the discussant and to the 
Secretariat for their substantive contributions. Thailand is, indeed, an important WTO Member with 
which Switzerland has steadily strengthened it s trade relations.  
4.240.   This Review is special in many aspects. Let me first congratulate Thailand for the inclusion 
of a dedicated section on SMEs in its report. SMEs are the backbone of most economies in the WTO 
and Thailand seems to be taking important step s to foster their development and participation in 
international trade. This aligns very nicely with the recommendations elaborated by the Informal 
working group on MSMEs, which have been concluded at a technical level earlier this month. Thailand 
is estab lishing itself as a front -runner for this important debate.  
4.241.   Turning to the broader economic context, the challenges brought forward by the COVID -19 
pandemic stand out. We note that the balanced fiscal situation has allowed Thailand to swiftly adopt 
measure s to provide relief after the onset of the crisis. We also acknowledge the continued expansion 
of the Thai economy in the last five years. Thailand has maintained an average growth rates above 
3% in the period under review and the unemployment rate is larg ely under control.  
4.242.   However, it appears that the slowdown of the global economy may have an impact on the 
official poverty rate. As the tourism and hospitality sectors will likely suffer from the pandemic, it 
may be important to continue monitoring this si tuation and adopt additional measures to ensure the 
gains in the fight against poverty are not lost.  
4.243.   At the same time, long -term fiscal challenges stemming from an aging population would 
indicate the need to keep expenditures under control and engage in a fiscal reform process.  
4.244.   With regard to trade policy, let me first highlight the important contribution of Thailand to 
the WTO, as a Member that is always constructive and engaged in many initiatives. Let me commend 
Thailand on the swift ratification and im plementation of the commitments under the TFA as well as 
the expanded ITA.  
4.245.   Furthermore, I would like to highlight the recent signature of the Regional Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership (RCEP), one of the biggest trade agreements the world has ever seen. We 
congratulate Thailand and the other Members for this success and look forward to delving into the WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  specifics of the agreement. Let me add our hopes that negotiations between Thailand and the EFTA 
states towards a FTA can soon be resumed. Such an agreemen t would be an important pillar to 
further develop the excellent bilateral relationship.  
4.246.   Switzerland had submitted a series of questions in writing and wishes to thank Thailand for 
the timely and extensive replies. In particular, we are thankful for the exp lanations with regard to 
the national strategy Thailand 4.0 and the planned Eastern Economic Corridor. We also appreciate 
the information provided on Thailand 's priorities in ASEAN, as well as the update on recent FTAs. 
We note the important difference bet ween bound and applied rates and would be interested in further 
explanations on this issue, especially where the applied rate may appear to be higher than the bound 
rate. We also note with concern the continued export restrictions on surgical masks, a good  that is 
essential to fight the pandemic. Finally, we are thankful for the answers provided with regard to the 
regulations on the provision of financial services and look forward to studying them more closely.  
4.247.   To conclude, let me underscore once again the  excellent cooperation Switzerland enjoys with 
the Thai authorities in many WTO work streams and our shared commitment to finding cooperative 
solutions to global problems. We hope that Thailand will be able to weather the crisis induced by the 
COVID -19 pan demic and take the necessary reform steps to emerge strengthened from this crisis. 
We wish Thailand a successful continuation of the trade policy review.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.248.   I would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of Thailand. We appreciate the 
comprehensive reports by the Government of Thailand and the WTO Secretariat. Our thanks also go 
to the discussant, H.E. Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa, for her thoughtful remarks. We hope that this 
TPR would contribute significantly to the transparency o f the trade regime of Thailand.  
4.249.   We would like to congratulate the Government of Thailand for carrying out effective trade 
and investment policies that contributed to solid economic growth during the review period and 
demonstrated the country's outward -orientation and integration into global value chains. At the 
same time, we understand that the economy of Thailand has been hit hard by the adverse impact 
of the COVID -19 pandemic and hope that the Government 's relief measures will prove effective at 
steering the country towards sustainable recovery. Thailand 's continued strong commitment to the 
multilateral trading system and active engagement in the WTO activities is especially important in 
this regard.  
4.250.   Over the years, the Russian Federation and Thailand have  been developing bilateral 
economic cooperation in many areas. During the review period, our trade turnover showed an 
upward trend, amounting to USD 2,6 billion in 2018, rising by 17% compared to the previous year. 
Between 2017 -2018 Russian exports rose by  47% to USD 753,5 million, imports – by 8% to 
USD 1,9 billion.  
4.251.   Russia has submitted a number of written questions related to issues of merchandise trade 
and tariffs, investment regime, intellectual property, regional trade cooperation as well as others. 
We thank the delegation of Thailand for the comprehensive replies to our questions and look forward 
to maintaining  a constructive dialogue.  
4.252.   In conclusion, we would like to thank you, Mr. Chairman, the delegation of Thailand, the 
Secretariat and the Discussan t, for the impressive work done so far and wish Thailand a successful 
Trade Policy Review.  
MALAYSIA  
4.253.   We would like to extend a very warm welcome to Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote, Her Excellency 
Sunanta Kangvalkulkijhis  and the Thailand delegation. We also thank the Secretariat for their effort 
in preparing comprehensive review reports, and the discussant, Her Excellency Silvia Alfaro of Peru 
for her insightful comments.  
4.254.   Malaysia is pleased to take part in the eighth Tr ade Policy Review of Thailand. We believe 
that this Review is important to evaluate Thailand 's efforts in achieving its economic and trade policy 
objectives.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.255.   Malaysia and Thailand over the years enjoy a strong and robust economic relationship. On 
bilateral trade, Thailand is Malaysia 's 5th largest trading partner with the total trade stood at 
USD 11.79 billion for the period of January to August 2020.  
4.256.   Malaysia 's exports to Thailand amounted to USD 6.89 billion, mainly exports of electrical and 
electronic products (34.9%) followed by chemicals and chemical products (10.5%); crude petroleum 
(7.2%) and machinery; equipment and parts (4.5%); and other manufactures (7.7%).  
4.257.   Meanwhile, Malaysia 's imports were recorded at USD 4.90 billion, in particular, e lectrical and 
electronic products (25.1%); followed by chemicals and chemical products (11.1%); transport 
equipment (10.3%); natural rubber (9.1%) and processed food (6.7%).  
4.258.   On the investment front, Thailand is one of Malaysia 's main investment destination s. For the 
period of January to June 2020, Malaysia 's investments in Thailand amounted to USD 5.16 million; 
while Thailand 's investments in Malaysia stood at USD 660 thousand.  
4.259.   At the multilateral front, we also would like to congratulate Thailand for its c ontinuous active 
participation in different economic and trade fora and her active participation in trade negotiations 
agenda at the bilateral and regional levels as well.  
4.260.   We acknowledge Thailand 's contribution to the conclusion of the Regional Comprehens ive 
Economic Partnership (RCEP), and ASEAN -Hong Kong, China. We also would like to thank Thailand 
for their constructive engagement during Malaysia 's APEC 2020 hosting year.  
4.261.   Malaysia also acknowledges the strides Thailand has made in business reforms and 
transparency in its procurement program. Thailand moved up 6 places to 21st out of 190 countries 
in the World Bank's 2020 Ease of Doing Business rankings and that is commendable.  
4.262.   Malaysia and Thailand have always enjoyed good diplomatic relations and share strong 
bilateral ties. Towards this, Malaysia hopes to maintain mutual social and economic cooperation for 
the betterment of business communities of both countries.  
4.263.   To conclude, we thank Thailand 's response to our questions,  and we shall examine the 
respo nses with the highest of interest. We wish Thailand a productive Trade Policy Review.  
NEW  ZEALAND  
4.264.   New Zealand is fortunate to have a strong, long -standing, and broad -based trading 
relationship with the Kingdom of Thailand. In the year to December 2019, Tha iland was 
New Zealand 's eighth largest two -way trading partner and a key market for New Zealand food and 
beverage. New Zealand highly values our trade and economic relationship with the Kingdom of 
Thailand.  
4.265.   New Zealand and Thailand have strong common inte rests in the promotion and protection 
of an open, inclusive, rules -based global trading system.  
4.266.   Since 2005, New Zealand and Thailand have benefited from our bilateral free trade 
agreement – the Thailand -New Zealand Closer Economic Partnership. In addition,  New Zealand and 
Thailand are both members of the ASEAN -Australia -New Zealand Free Trade Agreement. The 
implementation of these agreements has seen strong economic benefits for both countries – with 
two-way trade nearly doubling since 2005. We 've also rece ntly both signed the Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement which will further deepen our trade relationship. 
New Zealand is committed to continue working with Thailand on the full implementation of our 
shared agreements and commitments.  
4.267.   New Zealand will host APEC in 2021, with Thailand hosting in 2022. As committed APEC 
members and fellow future hosts, New Zealand looks forward to continuing to work proactively with 
Thailand to advance common goals across the APEC agenda.  
4.268.   Subsequent to Thai land's previous Trade Policy Review, New Zealand notes that Thailand 
passed the Public Procurement and Supplies Administration Act in August 2017. In this review, WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  New Zealand raises questions regarding the ability of foreign suppliers to participate in dir ect cross -
border government procurement processes in Thailand. We welcome further information from 
Thailand on the steps that would need to be taken to enable this.  
4.269.   New Zealand has raised questions during this review with regards to Thailand 's agricultural  
policies. We note that aspects of Thailand 's agricultural border measures remain unclear, creating 
undue uncertainty for trade. New Zealand encourages Thailand to ensure greater transparency and 
predictability within its trade policy in order to promote e fficient and reliable trade. With respect to 
Thailand 's continued focus on improving agricultural productivity, New Zealand has been pleased to 
assist through the New Zealand -Thai Dairy Development Co -operation Programme. We note that 
the elimination and reduction of tariffs for the agricultural sector will a lso contribute to improving 
efficiency and productivity of agriculture in Thailand.  
4.270.   New Zealand also encourages Thailand to proactively address any non -tariff barriers that 
may arise on agricultural goods.  This includes ensuring that tariff quota administ ration is undertaken 
in a transparent and predictable manner. Through intensified reforms and proactive and well - 
communicated processes, Thailand can ensure commercially reliable import arrangements for 
agricultural trade.  
4.271.   New Zealand notes Thailand 's pro gress, including through the 2018 Royal Ordinance on 
Fisheries, in countering Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. In this review, we are 
interested to learn more from Thailand regarding how it ensures that those involved in IUU fishing 
do no t benefit from domestic support to the fisheries sector.  
4.272.   In conclusion, New Zealand notes the commitment of Thailand to the multilateral trading 
system. We welcome the progress made by Thailand since the last Trade Policy Review and the 
opportunity to be involved in this process. New Zealand looks forward to continuing to work with 
Thailand to advance our many common interests across our trade and economic relationship.  
PHILIPPINES  
4.273.   The Philippines associates itself with the ASEAN Statement delivered by Mya nmar, 
highlighting the economic contribution of Thailand in the ASEAN and the WTO.  
4.274.   The Philippine delegation warmly welcomes and congratulates the delegation of Thailand led 
by Minister Rachavitch Piyapramote of the Permanent Mission of Thailand to the WTO  and WIPO in 
Bangkok and Ambassador Sunanta Kangvalkulkij of the Permanent Mission of Thailand to the WTO 
and WIPO in Geneva on their 8th Trade Policy Review. We also thank Ambassador Silvia Elena Alfaro 
Espinosa of Peru for her insightful comments as disc ussant, and the WTO Secretariat for a 
comprehensive report.  
4.275.   The Philippines and Thailand have a longstanding bilateral relation. While historical ties point 
to early commercial and cultural contacts between the Philippines and Thailand, it was only in Jun e 
1949 when official diplomatic relations between our two countries were established. We have 
concluded 25 key bilateral agreements in a span of seven decades, which have contributed to the 
strengthening of the links between our two nations. These bilatera l treaties have expanded our 
cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, culture, defence, tourism, and environment, among 
others.  
4.276.   Thailand is one of the major economic partners of the Philippines. It is the Philippines ' 7th 
largest foreign investment partner and 7th major trading partner with total bilateral trade valued at 
USD 9.95 Billion in 2019. It is the Philippines ' 7th top export market and 5th biggest import supplier.  
4.277.   Thailand is the seventh largest economy in Asia, and the second largest in A SEAN. As fellow 
founding Members of ASEAN in 1967, the Philippines values its strong partnership with Thailand to 
pursue economic integration within the region and expand trade and investment relations with other 
economic partners through regional trade ag reements. Among these is the recently signed Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which involves the ASEAN Members and 5 other 
trading partners in the Asia Pacific region.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.278.   Thailand 's new development policy, Thailand 4.0, underpins the co untry 's National Strategy 
to drive economic growth through innovation. We acknowledge its goal to make its economy more 
inclusive and sustainable, which includes priorities for MSME development, digital economy and 
bio-circular -green economy. In particular , we recognize the initiatives that were undertaken by the 
Thai government to promote MSME integration in the global value chains.   
4.279.   Thailand has been actively engaged in various WTO work, including several initiatives such 
as the WTO reform, fisheries subs idies, electronic commerce, and services domestic regulation. We, 
thus, likewise encourage and welcome Thailand 's participation in the Informal Working Group on 
MSMEs, particularly in support of the MSME package of recommendations and declarations to suppo rt 
MSMEs participation in international trade.  
4.280.   Further, we note the reported changes in Thailand 's customs regime and its adoption of a 
new Customs Act to simplify customs procedures and improve transparency. We do, however, 
believe that Thailand should end without delay its reward system for whistle blowers, especially 
those who are organic in the bureaucracy because this will potentially raise credibility and integrity 
issues in the conduct of trade policy and governance. We encourage Thailand to  hold steady with its 
commitment to WTO rules and principles and respect for an open, fair, transparent, non -
discriminatory and rules -based multilateral trading system.  
4.281.   The Philippines has submitted some advance written questions on the TPR reports and we 
thank the delegation of the Thailand for their prompt replies. We have shared this with our colleagues 
in Capital for their consideration.  
4.282.   In closing, the Philippines looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial 
economic relations with Thail and in the bilateral, regional, and multilateral fora.  
ECUADOR  
4.283.   La delegación ecuatoriana da la bienvenida a la delegación de Tailandia, presidida por el 
señor Rachavitch Piyaparamote, ministro en la Misión Permanente de Tailandia ante la OMC y la 
OMPI, con  sede en Bangkok. Quisiera del mismo modo, sumarse al reconocimiento expresado por 
quienes me precedieron en el uso de la palabra, respecto a la calidad de los reportes elaborados 
tanto por la Secretaría como por el Gobierno de tailandés.  
4.284.   Me gustaría feli citar los comentarios y observaciones de la ponente, Embajadora Silvia 
Alfaro.  
4.285.   El Ecuador atiende con gran interés este octavo Examen de Políticas Comerciales. Esperamos 
Tailandia pueda recuperar el ritmo de crecimiento que registró hasta el 2019 y supere  las 
consecuencias materiales y humanas de la pandemia de COVID -19. En ese sentido, considera 
importante la implementación la Estrategia Nacional a 20 años y el Duodécimo Plan Nacional de 
Desarrollo Económico y Social (NESDP) 2017 -2021 y los efectos que pu diese tener en términos de 
reducción de las inequidades.  
4.286.   Merece particular atención el importante rol que representan los países miembros de la 
ASEAN como destino de las exportaciones tailandesas, siendo un mecanismo de integración 
económica regional que contribuye para que Tailandia alcance una mayor diversificación de sus 
mercados de destino.  
4.287.   Es un gran y valioso empeño la estrategia digital del gobierno tailandés. Tailandia ha dado 
acertados pasos en cuanto a la transformación estructural de su economí a. En esa misma línea el 
Ecuador mira con interés la estrategia para el apoyo de las Mipymes y el fortalecimiento del sistema 
de propiedad intelectual  
4.288.   Despertó mucho interés en el Ecuador la información presentada respecto al sector 
pesquero, sobre el cual  trataban un buen número de las preguntas planteadas a propósito de este 
Examen de Política Comercial. Agradezco las respuestas brindadas por Tailandia a nuestras 
preguntas.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.289.   Asimismo, aprovechamos esta ocasión para gradecer el apoyo de Tailandia al coincid ir con 
el criterio técnico sobre el pedido de analizar la no conveniencia de mantener al virus de la necrosis 
hipodérmica y hematopoyética infecciosa (IHHNV) en la lista de enfermedades de los crustáceos de 
la Organización Mundial de Sanidad Animal, OIE. E l apoyo y cooperación con Tailandia contribuye a 
las gestiones orientadas a reforzar la aplicabilidad del Acuerdo MSF en este ámbito.  
4.290.   El intercambio comercial entre Ecuador y Tailandia se caracteriza por exportaciones 
ecuatorianas de camarón e importación desde Tailandia de bienes industrializados, como vehículos 
y maquinaria. El Ecuador tiene gran interés en diversificar sus productos y mercados de destino, y 
considera a Tailandia como un potencial socio con el que espera ampliar el intercambio comercial y  
los vínculos de cooperación.  
4.291.   El Ecuador coincide con Tailandia respecto a la importancia que debe tener el Sistema de 
Comercio Multilateral; y le desea éxito en la conclusión de su octavo Examen de las políticas 
comerciales.  
MÉXICO  
4.292.   México da la más cordi al bienvenida a la delegación de Tailandia, encabezada por el ministro  
Rachavitch Piyapramote. Asimismo, agradezco a la Embajadora Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa por su 
análisis puntual y a la Secretaría de la OMC por el arduo trabajo realizado para la elabo ración de su 
informe.  
4.293.   Durante el período de examen, la economía de Tailandia continuó su buen desempeño y 
crecimiento, pero, como era de esperarse, no ha sido ajena a los impactos de las tensiones 
comerciales que dominaron el panorama de 2019 y al shock de l COVID -19 que todos hemos 
experimentado en 2020. Según estimaciones, la economía tailandesa apunta a una fuerte 
contracción de 8,1% en este año, debido principalmente a la disminución de la demanda externa e 
interna, a la afectación de las cadenas de sumi nistro y a las restricciones impuestas para mitigar los 
efectos de la pandemia que han afectado severamente a varios sectores, incluyendo el sector 
turismo, el cual contribuye de manera importante al PIB. A pesar de la incertidumbre, las 
proyecciones indic an una posible recuperación en 2021.  
4.294.   Nos complace constatar que la estabilidad macroeconómica y las políticas prudentes que 
mantuvo el gobierno tailandés, le ha permitido ser flexible en la adopción de políticas fiscales y 
monetarias para afrontar la crisi s provocada por la pandemia. Empero, con vista al futuro, Tailandia 
tendría que fomentar reformas que le permitan afrontar sus problemas estructurales a través de 
mayor inversión pública y privada, políticas para aumentar la innovación, la productividad y la 
competitividad.  
4.295.   La orientación hacia el exterior de Tailandia es evidente, con un comercio de bienes y 
servicios que durante buena parte del período de examen representó más del 120% del PIB. Sin 
duda su apertura e integración al comercio internacional  ha sido y seguirá siendo un componente 
clave en su progreso y crecimiento. No obstante, persisten preocupaciones respecto a su estructura 
arancelaria complicada, al aumento del promedio arancelario, a la exclusión de consolidación del 
23,7% de las líneas arancelarias, a la vigilancia y control de los precios de bienes y servicios, y a las 
restricciones a la exportación de algunos productos.  
4.296.   Si bien la contribución del sector agropecuario tailandés en el PIB disminuyó con respecto al 
examen anterior, sigue teniendo un papel importante en su economía y en el empleo. Tailandia es 
un exportador neto de productos agropecuarios y es el primer o segundo productor del mundo de 
varios de esos productos, pero su sector agrícola goza de una alta protección con salvagu ardias 
agrícolas especiales, aranceles no -ad valorem, contingentes arancelarios con baja utilización y 
niveles de ayuda interna que no conocemos por falta de notificaciones en los años que abarca el 
período de examen. Exhortamos a Tailandia a mejorar su ap ertura en este sector y su cumplimiento 
con las obligaciones de notificación.  
4.297.   En materia de facilitación del comercio, felicitamos a Tailandia por las mejoras en su régimen 
aduanero, que ha ayudado a simplificar sus procedimientos y a mejorar la transparencia. Si bien 
reconocemos los esfuerzos en la aplicación del 97,1% de sus compromisos bajo el AFC, los 
exhortamos a seguir su labor para alcanzar la plena aplicación de dicho Acuerdo que ratificó en  2015. WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  Estamos convencidos que los avances en su sistema de aduana electrónica contribuirán a agilizar y 
simplificar trámites, lo cual les permitiría responder a los retos que conlleva la nueva realidad 
"automatizada " que ha hecho aún más evidente el COVID -19. 
4.298.   Notamos la importancia del sector turismo y la fuerte afectación que han tenido los ingresos 
derivados de dicha actividad debido a la pandemia. Dada la incertidumbre respecto a la continuación 
de medidas restrictivas en el contexto del COVID -19, destacamos la recomendación de la OCDE de 
fomentar un mayor desarrollo de servicios relacionados con tecnologías de la información y otros 
servicios profesionales con el fin de impulsar la resistencia de su economía.  
4.299.   Si bien nos complace constatar que durante el período de examen Tailandia ha modernizado 
la normatividad algunos sectores como del sector financiero, del sector de telecomunicaciones y del 
sector de transporte aéreo, la expansión del sector de servicios en general se ve obstaculizada por 
regulaciones estrictas. Apuntar hacia una mayor liberalizaci ón ayudaría a Tailandia a mejorar la 
competitividad y productividad de los servicios, lo que también impactaría positivamente en el sector 
manufacturero. Del mismo modo, fomentar la inversión, eliminando restricciones a la participación 
extranjera que aún persisten, ayudaría significativamente a la expansión del sector servicios, lo que 
estimularía la economía, contribuiría a la creación de empleos y beneficiaría a los consumidores 
tailandeses.  
4.300.   Por último, si bien los retos que enfrenta Tailandia en el cor to plazo son considerables, 
confiamos que los esfuerzos para continuar su integración en el comercio mundial y su atención a 
las reformas estructurales le ayudarán a mantener su trayectoria hacia un crecimiento sostenido.  
4.301.   Sr. Presidente, no me queda más q ue agradecer a la delegación de Tailandia su compromiso 
con el sistema multilateral de comercio, así como las respuestas a las preguntas en materia de 
competencia que nuestra delegación ha presentado por escrito, y desearles un exitoso examen de 
sus políti cas comerciales.  
VIET  NAM 
4.302.   On behalf of the Viet Nam 's delegation, I wish to extend our warmest welcome to the 
distinguished delegation of Thailand led by Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote, Minister, Permanent Mission 
of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO (Bangkok Offic e) to the Thailand 's 8th Trade Policy Review.  
4.303.   I would like to thank the Government of Thailand and the WTO Secretariat for the 
preparation of comprehensive reports for this review, especially under the circumstances of the 
COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.304.   My thanks also go to the discussant H.E. Ms Silvia Elena ALFARO ESPINOSA, Ambassador, 
Permanent Representative of Peru for insightful observations and introduction.  
4.305.   Viet Nam associates itself We would like to associate ourselves with the ASEAN statement 
delivered by Myanmar and would like to share three points.  
4.306.   Viet Nam shares the same view with Thailand that further enhanced trade and investment 
liberalisation is among the best pathways to prosperity and welcome Thailand 's strong commitment 
to the multilatera l trading system in the time of uncertainties.  
4.307.   We are happy to note that Thailand 's economy continued to grow averaging 3.4% annually 
during the review period despite increasing global uncertainties and trade tensions.  
4.308.   For our bilateral trade relations, V iet Nam is pleased to be having been Thailand 's largest 
trading partner within the ASEAN bloc in recent years. In the period of 2015 -2019, our bilateral 
trade turnover increased from USD 11.5 billion to USD 16.9 billion, with an average growth rate of 
8.1%  per year.  
4.309.   Viet Nam 's major export items to Thailand are telephone all types and components, 
computers and electronic products and components, iron and steel, and transportation vehicles and 
parts.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.310.   The two -way trade is targeted to reach USD 25 billion in  2025. In terms of investment, 
Thailand 's FDI to Viet Nam ranks 9th in Viet Nam and reached USD 12.4 billion as of September 
2020.  
4.311.   With the implementation of our tariff commitments of under the WTO and a number of FTAs, 
non-tariff measures are important is sues that we need to address properly in order to promote trade 
and strengthen global as well as regional supply chains.  
4.312.   In this regard, we would appreciate the transparency improvement by Thailand with respect 
to the regulations on the areas that affect c ross border trade such as: import licensing procedures, 
quality control, TBT and SPS measures, domestic circulation of certain specific goods, etc.  
4.313.   From regional co -operation perspective, we would like to thank Thailand for a closed co -
operation with Viet Nam and other ASEAN Member States as well as the 5 partner -countries in 
concluding the negotiations and signing of the RCEP Agreement on 15 November 2020, which is a 
strong message on our region 's support to the rule -based multilateral trading system.  
4.314.   We hope that the implementation of this Agreement will facilitate the development of the 
regional supply chains as well as contribute to the economic recovery from the Covid -19 pandemic 's 
impacts.  
4.315.   On the multilateral front, we commend Thailand is as a strong supporter of the multilateral 
trading system and an active participant in the WTO negotiations, actively participating in the WTO 
negotiations and in various initiatives to strengthen the WTO.  
4.316.   In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to thank and commend Ambassador 
Sunanta K angvalkulkij and her able team for the excellent preparation for this review, as well as 
their constructive contribution and engagement in the WTO activities. We wish Thailand a successful 
Trade Policy Review.  
COSTA  RICA 
4.317.   Costa Rica desea unirse a los saludos de bienvenida a la delegación de Tailandia y 
agradecerles por el informe presentado esta mañana, al igual que la Embajadora Alfaro del Perú por 
sus apreciaciones como ponente de este examen.  
4.318.   Mi delegación no presentó pre guntas para este examen. Sin embargo, quisiera aprovechar 
esta oportunidad para destacar, de forma muy breve, algunos puntos.  
4.319.   En primer lugar, Costa Rica ve en Tailandia a un Miembro comprometido con el sistema 
multilateral del comercio de la OMC basado en  reglas. En particular, apreciamos el destacado papel 
de Tailandia y de la Embajadora Sunanta Kangvalkukij como presidenta del Órgano de Solución de 
Diferencias en 2018 y del Consejo General en 2019, lo que demuestra el apego de Tailandia a esta 
organizaci ón y su voluntad de contribuir con su funcionamiento. Además, reconocemos los esfuerzos 
de Tailandia en la búsqueda de soluciones que permitan resolver la situación del Órgano de 
Apelación, como una forma de preservar un sistema de solución de diferencias de dos instancias, 
así como su activa participación en las discusiones relativas a la reforma de la OMC en diversos 
ámbitos.  
4.320.   Al igual que Costa Rica, Tailandia es parte del Grupo de Friends of the System, así como del 
Grupo de Cairns y participa en la inic iativa conjunta sobre comercio electrónico. Nos complace, 
además, la reciente adhesión de Tailandia a la iniciativa sobre disciplinas de reglamentación nacional 
en materia de servicios.  
4.321.   Tailandia, como una mayoría de los Miembros de la OMC, se ha visto afe ctada por la crisis 
global causada por la epidemia de la COVID -19, en particular como consecuencia de las 
perturbaciones de las cadenas de suministro que afectaron el sector del automóvil, así como las 
graves consecuencias que ha tenido para el sector del turismo. Si bien, ya en el 2019 la economía 
tailandesa entró en recesión, Tailandia parte de bases sólidas para una recuperación exitosa, 
caracterizadas por una estabilidad macroeconómica fruto de políticas fiscales y monetarias 
prudentes.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.322.   Debido al alto peso del comercio de bienes y servicios en el PIB de Tailandia, el comercio 
internacional seguirá siendo un instrumento fundamental para la recuperación. En este sentido, nos 
complace la reciente firma del Acuerdo relativo a la Asociación Económica Am plia Regional (RCEP 
por sus siglas en inglés) del que Tailandia forma parte, como miembro del ASEAN y aprovechamos 
esta ocasión para felicitar a todos los países participantes por este logro histórico que estamos 
seguros contribuirá a mantener el dinamismo  de la región y será una herramienta muy importante 
en el camino de la recuperación y del crecimiento en un escenario post -COVID. Sería interesante 
conocer las estimaciones relativas al impacto que la puesta en vigor de este acuerdo tendrá en la 
economía t ailandesa.  
4.323.   Finalmente, con relación a sus políticas comerciales, observamos que en el informe de la 
Secretaría se señalan retrasos puntuales en la presentación de notificaciones en materia de ayuda 
internas a la agricultura, por lo que instamos a Tailandia  a la puesta al día de esta información. 
Además, invitamos a Tailandia a considerar su estructura arancelaria actual, en particular la 
existencia de derechos no -ad valorem en alrededor 8% de sus líneas arancelarias, que la hacen más 
compleja y disminuyen s u previsibilidad.  
4.324.   Finalmente, deseo agradecer a la Secretaría por los preparativos para este Examen y reiterar 
los mejores deseos a la delegación de Tailandia.  
LAO PDR 
4.325.   At the outset, Lao PDR would like to associate itself with the statement made by Myanma r 
on behalf of ASEAN.  
4.326.   On behalf of the Lao PDR delegation, I would like to sincere congratulate the eighth Trade 
Policy Review of the Kingdom of Thailand and warmly welcome the official delegation of Thailand. 
We believe that this would contribute signific antly to the trade policy review of Thailand.  
4.327.   Thailand is one of the most important and closest economic partners  of the Lao PDR. The 
bilateral trade volume between two countries last year amounted to USD 5.51 billion. Thailand is 
also the second largest f oreign investor; there are many private -sector companies have been 
investing and operating in Lao PDR, especially in the energy, mining and industrial sectors. In 2019, 
total value of Thai's FDI into Lao PDR accounted of USD 2004 million. We are confident that both 
countries will continue to further enhance bilateral trade and increase the investment flows.  
4.328.   Lao PDR greatly appreciates the various efforts of Thailand has put into keeping its market 
open and competitive, including the improvement of its custo ms regime and the implementation of 
97.1% of its commitments under the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement which removed trade 
obstacles and a great improvement in the area of trade facilitation.  
4.329.   Thailand takes its WTO obligations exceptionally; we commend Thailand for being a 
constructive member in the WTO as well as the continuation to actively participate in regional 
economic forums as a mean to work with partners to advance multilateral trading system.  
4.330.   Finally, we would like to conclude by expres sing our sincere congratulation to the Permanent 
Representative of Thailand, Ambassador Sunanta Kangvalkulkij and her team for the hard work and 
wish Thailand every success in its Trade Policy Review.  
SRI LANKA  
4.331.   My delegation welcomes the delegation of Thai land joining this meeting remotely due to the 
prevailing global health situation. We thank Her Excellency the Ambassador of Peru, the Discussant, 
for her report and the WTO Secretariat and Government of Thailand for their comprehensive reports 
made availab le to the delegations in advance of this meeting.  
4.332.   My delegation notes with interest Thailand 's continued economic advancements with an 
average GDP growth of 3.4% during the period under review. It is noteworthy the Government 's 
economic stimulus measures that warrant a healthy inflation level, relatively low levels of public 
debt, a sizable current account surplus, substantial foreign exchange reserves, and most importantly 
upgrading the country as an upper -middle -income group of countries in 2019.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.333.   The ra tio of Thailand 's trade to GDP reflects its outward -orientation and integration into 
global value chains. However, in contrary there is a complex tariff structure in Thailand with a 
significant level of water between bound tariff and applied tariff. The si mple average bound tariff is 
27.9% while the average applied tariff stood at 10.2% in 2019. The gap is relatively low for 
agricultural products compared to non -agricultural products. It is due to high applied tariff on 
agricultural products with an average  of 32.7%, which warrants more trade protection for agriculture 
than rest of the economic sectors.  
4.334.   The prevalence of tariff quotas for over 125 tariff lines, including Sri Lanka 's export interest 
agricultural commodities, such as, tea, coffee and coconut,  is a serious concern for Sri Lanka. As 
noticed by many, these quotas mostly under filled. We are encouraged by the responses provided 
by Thailand that in order to enhance the efficiency of quota allocation and consistence with current 
trade situation, its  authorities (Department of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce) has currently 
revised the regulations, procedures and conditions of quotas allocation for imported agricultural 
products and we evaluate the new situation carefully. In addition, some imports  are subject to 
application of surcharges, licensing requirements as well as prohibitions.  
4.335.   On bilateral front, Buddhism is prominent in both Thailand and Sri Lanka. Two friendly 
nations work closely to promote religious tourism as well as cultural coopera tion. Further, various 
Thai international hotel brands have already invested and established themselves in Sri Lanka. Both 
Countries have also discussed possible maritime connectivity between Colombo and the Thai 
province of Rayong, connecting the Andaman Sea in the Indian Ocean under the Bay of Bengal 
Initiative for Multi -Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation transportation master plan.  
4.336.   On trade, Thailand is the 25th export destination for Sri Lankan merchandises and the 8th 
largest source of supply of imports for Sri Lanka. Trade balance is continued to be in favour of 
Thailand, since Sri Lanka 's exports are concentrated on handful of items which do not attract high 
values such as fish, apparel and textiles, miscellaneous edible preparations, and tea . An exceptional 
growth indicates in Sri Lanka 's exports to Thailand in 2019, due to export of precious stones which 
individually account for 56% of Sri Lanka 's exports to Thailand in 2019. Thailand 's exports to 
Sri Lanka are nearly 10 times or higher than  that of Sri Lanka in each year, a slight drop is noticed 
in 2019 though.  
4.337.   Thailand and Sri Lanka have cooperation on investment and taxation since 1988, when two 
countries signed double taxation avoidance agreement. In 1996, a bilateral investment treaty 
between the two countries came into effect. Thailand ranked at 20th in terms of FDI origins to 
Sri Lanka in 2019. The report also indicates that Thailand has become a net capital exporter during 
the past years, due to its significant increase in investment  outflows.   
4.338.   A memorandum of understanding on Strategic Economic Partnership signed in 2018 between 
the two countries added a momentum to the efforts in negotiating a bilateral FTA between two 
countries. Accordingly, Thailand and Sri Lanka started negotiati ons for a bilateral Free Trade 
Agreement in 2018 for encompassing not only trade in goods, but investment and trade in services 
are also top priorities in FTA negotiations. Three friendly rounds of negotiations were held so far 
during 2018/2019 period and now it is in a temporary standstill waiting to commence the 
negotiations at any given time.  
4.339.   In concluding, my delegation appreciates Thailand 's highly valued contribution to the 
multilateral trading system and its active engagement in the negotiations. Th e dynamic role played 
by Ambassador Sunanta and her team in Geneva in proactively engaging in ongoing activities of 
WTO, is highly commendable. We sincerely wish Thai delegation a successful deliberation on its 8th 
Trade Policy Review.  
CAMBODIA  
4.340.   I join othe rs to express our warmest welcome the delegation of Thailand led by 
Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote Minister of the Permanent Mission of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO. 
Our thanks also go to Ambassador Silvia Alfaro of Peru for her insightful assessment reflectin g the 
current trade policies and economic performance of Thailand. We also thank the Trade Policy Review 
Division and Thailand for their reports available for this review.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.341.   Cambodia associates itself with the statement made Myanmar on behalf of ASEAN Member  
States.  
4.342.   We acknowledge all efforts and active role of Thailand in the ASEAN region especially during 
its ASEAN chairman -ship last year.  
4.343.   We wish to congratulate Thailand for maintaining its remarkable economic performance since 
its last review and applaud Thailand  for preserving its position as the seventh -largest economy in 
Asia, and the second largest in ASEAN.  
4.344.   Cambodia and Thailand have long historical, cultural and social relations since the 13th 
century. The diplomatic relations between the modern states were established in 1950. Since then, 
both sides commit to build prominent progresses for peace and trade development as good 
neighbouring countries.  
4.345.   Currently, Thailand is a main trading partner for Cambodia. We have maintained excellent 
relations, as reflect ed by regular high -level visits and meetings. The relationship between the 
governments of the two countries has strengthened especially for trade development. We agreed to 
promote the bilateral trade and other areas including the rail -line after they were disconnected in 
the 1960s.  
4.346.   In 2019, trade between the two countries was around USD 9.4 billion, increased by 12% 
compared to 2015 which was about USD 5 billion. Cambodia 's exports to Thailand were valued 
around USD 2.3 billion and the imports were approxim ately USD 7.1 billion.  
4.347.   According the Secretariat report, the inflow of FDI from Cambodia has increased from 
USD 4.3 million to USD 11.4 million while the outflow of FDI to Cambodia has increased from 
USD 32.1 million to around USD 81 million between 2015 a nd 2019. We note that the increases may 
partly contribute from the good implementation of the bilateral investment treaty and double 
taxation agreements of both countries that has interred into force since 1997.  
4.348.   I would like to take this opportunity to ex press our appreciation to Thailand for their good 
cooperation and facilitation our imports and exports through its policies including trade liberalization 
for a purpose of trade benefit and development for all. Both sides are friendly working on some 
measu res and trade barriers to boost our imports and exports because most of our agricultural 
products are similar. The agricultural products that Cambodia exports to Thailand such as rice, corn, 
soybean, cassava, cashew nuts and mangoes. Cambodia mainly import s from Thailand such as 
machinery, electronic equipment, oil, construction materials, cosmetics and home equipment.  
4.349.   We thank and appreciate the delegation of Thailand in Geneva led by ambassador Sunanta, 
for the friendship and good cooperation. We commend  Thailand for putting its efforts and active 
participation in building -up rule -based multilateral trading system. I particularly appreciate Thailand 
for the generous supports Cambodia in the negotiations under WTO framework.  
4.350.   Finally, we commit to working c losely with Thailand to strengthen the cooperation in related 
fields including trade, investment, IP and works of the WTO.  
4.351.   I wish Thailand a successful of its 8th Trade Policy Review.  
AFGHANISTAN  
4.352.   Afghanistan extends its gratitude to you and the Secretaria t for convening this meeting and 
for preparing the comprehensive report. I would like to thank our discussant Ambassador Silvia 
Alfaro Espinosa of Peru, for her insightful remarks and welcome Thailand 's capital and Geneva -based 
delegates to the meeting, le d by H.E. Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote Minister Permanent 
Representative of Thailand to the WTO and the World Intellectual in Bangkok.  
4.353.   In particular, we  wish to extend our congratulations to Thailand for its 8th Trade Policy 
Review, especially, to Her Excellency Ambassador Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Permanent Representative 
of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO, and her competent team for their contribution and con stant good 
work here in Geneva.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.354.   My delegation commends Thailand for presenting its comprehensive trade policy report, and 
Thailand 's National Policies including the 20 -year National Strategy 2018 -2037 and the Twelfth 
National Economic and Social Developmen t Plan 2017 -2021, and the initiation of the Eastern 
Economic Corridor and the Eastern Special Development Zone Act to enhance Thailand 's 
competitiveness. The launch of Transport and Development Plan, Action Plan on Industrial 
Development, the efforts to ea se the doing business, relaxation of foreign exchange regulations, and 
repatriation of export proceeds are all positive steps. We commend Thailand 's commitment to trade 
liberalization under the multilateral trading system centered on WTO.  
4.355.   Meanwhile, I woul d also like to take this opportunity to thank Ambassador Sunanta, 
Permanent Representative of Thailand to the WTO and the WIPO for successfully chairing the 
Disputes Settlement Body (DSB) in 2018 and the General Council in 2019, and for her efforts that 
have resulted in the smooth functioning of the WTO during a challenging time.  
4.356.   Considering the recent challenges facing the multilateral trading system, Afghanistan counts 
on Thailand 's role among others in preserving an open, rules -based multilateral trading  system with 
the WTO at its core.  
4.357.   I conclude my statement by wishing Thailand 's delegation a very successful and productive 
trade policy review.  
JAMAICA  
4.358.   Jamaica warmly welcomes the Head of delegation, Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote, along with 
the other member s of the delegation to this eighth Trade Policy Review of Thailand. We congratulate 
Thailand for its hard work and the comprehensive report presented here today. Also, I wish to 
acknowledge Ambassador Sunanta and the staff of the Thai Mission to the WTO.  
4.359.   Thanks also to the Secretariat for their efforts, as well as to our discussant Ambassador 
Alfaro Espinosa of Peru for her very insightful contributions to this process. In addition, thank you 
Chair for your effective guidance of this meeting.  
4.360.   As an upper mi ddle-income economy and one of the leading economies in Asia, Thailand is 
very integrated in global trade and value chains and is an important player. Thailand 's active use of 
Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) towards deepening ties with key partners within  ASEAN and 
externally is positively noted. Jamaica further commends Thailand for its continued commitment to 
the multilateral trading system and its active engagement in work of WTO bodies. The strides made 
by Thailand in terms of improving its trade and b usiness facilitation measures, including through the 
implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement; domestic customs procedures, intellectual 
property as well as notifications in relation to SPS and TBT measures are welcomed and should be 
further stre ngthened.  
4.361.   In terms of trade policies and practices, Thailand should also be commended for a range 
support policies and measures which are aligned with its trade and economic growth objectives. Two 
such are its 20 -Year National Strategy (2018 -2037) which is  aimed at transforming the country into 
a digital economy, and the Twelfth National Economic and Social Development Plan (NESDP) 
2017-2021 with priority focus on: advancing infrastructure and logistics; developing science, 
technology, research and innovati on; developing regional, urban and economic zones; and 
strengthening international cooperation and development.  
4.362.   Since its last Trade Policy Review, Thailand has continued to pursue strong macro -economic 
fundamentals and an appropriate policy mix that has e nsured financial growth and stability, as well 
as the resilience of its outward -looking economy. These policies resulted in subdued inflation, 
relatively low levels of public debt, a sizable current account surplus, substantial foreign exchange 
reserves, a nd an average annual growth rate of 3.4% between 2015 and 2019. The country 's 
economy has however been adversely affected by the COVID -19 pandemic which has exacerbated 
the contraction of its merchandise exports, including in the automobile sector, which i s one of 
Thailand's main industries. Moreover, there has been a significant fall out in the services sector, led 
by tourism, which has also suffered a deep contraction due to a mix of domestic and international 
travel restrictions. It is anticipated that t hese will eventually be overcome, and the economy will 
rebound. Nevertheless, Thailand is encouraged to increase public and private investment, enhance WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  innovation and the liberalization of trade and investment, particularly in the services sector to furthe r 
bolster economic growth and international competitiveness.  
4.363.   Jamaica and Thailand have shared a strong history of friendship and cooperation over the 
years at the bilateral and multilateral levels, including in the field of trade, where there is a 
substan tial trade surplus in favour of Thailand. In 2019, for example, Jamaica 's total imports from 
Thailand were valued at USD 81,329,792. Our main imports from Thailand include  motor vehicles, 
fish products, coconut milk, juices and nuts. On the other hand, Jamaica 's exports to Thailand 
comprise mainly of rum and to a lesser extent, coffee. Jamaica looks forward to increased 
opportunities for strengthening its bilateral trade an d investment ties with Thailand in the following 
priority areas namely the Logistics Hub Initiative, Information and Communications Technology 
(ICT), Tourism and Agro -processing.  
4.364.   In closing, Jamaica congratulates the delegation of Thailand and we extend to  them our best 
wishes for a successful Review.  
KINGDOM  OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.365.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is very pleased to take part in the eighth Trade Policy Review 
of Thailand and wishes to extend a very warm welcome to the delegation of Thailand headed by 
Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote Minister, Permanent Mission of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO.  
4.366.   I would like to take this opportunity to thank Thailand and the Secretariat of the WTO for 
their detailed and comprehensive Trade Policy Review Reports. I also thank the  discussant 
H.E. Ambassador Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa from Peru for her insightful and perceptive comments.  
4.367.   The period of Thailand 's trade policy review has been marked by significant adversities such 
as, global economic slowdown, which resulted in a co ntraction in the Thai exports, private investment 
and consumption. The Covid -19 crisis disrupted business activity, weighed on consumption and 
supply chain in different products, and reduced overseas demand for Thailand tourism sector and 
exports in genera l. Thailand is to be commended for its large-scale monetary stimulus to help 
protecting businesses and consumers facing the impact of COVID 19 and to support the economic 
activity.  
4.368.   Thailand has maintained macro -financial stability, supported by prudent fis cal and monetary 
policies. Between 2015 and 2019, the economy grew at an annual average rate of 3.4% in real 
terms,  
4.369.   We praise Thailand for its new National Strategy (2018 -2037), underpinned by its 
development policy which aims at transforming the country into a value -added, innovative, and 
knowledge -based economy. We also welcome the reforms undertaken by the Thai Government, 
particularly in the areas of customs regime, competition policy, government procurement, IP, and 
transportation.    
4.370.   The Kingdom of Sa udi Arabia and Thailand are prominent trading partners. Trade exchange 
between the two countries surpassed USD 7.4 billion in 2019. This encouraging trade volume 
between the two countries makes Thailand ranking 15th among the Kingdom 's trading partners.   
4.371.   Over the period of review, Thailand has continued to play a central role in the reinforcement 
of the multilateral trading system and has been active in bilateral and plurilateral trade negotiations.  
4.372.   To conclude, I would like to wish the entire delegation of  Thailand a very successful Trade 
Policy Review.  
BANGLADESH  
4.373.   Bangladesh delegation congratulates delegation of Thailand both in Geneva and Bangkok for 
its 8th Trade Policy Review. Bangladesh delegation also convey thanks to Secretariat for the 
comprehensive  report and H.E Ambassador Mrs. Silvia of Peru for insightful discussion.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.374.   Bangladesh and Thailand are friendly countr ies and this friendship is trusted and tested 
friend. The two countries established diplomatic relationship on 5 October 1972. Two countri es 
signed the Agreement on the Establishment of the Joint Commission on Cooperation on 29 January 
1982 to further strengthen and promote the close cooperation. Bangladesh and Thailand also signed 
a trade agreement on 22 August 1997 and formed joint chamber s of commerce to promote bilateral 
trade. According to WTO Bali Ministerial declaration, Thailand has been providing duty free market 
access to 6998 products in favour of Bangladesh under the LDC preferential tariff treatment since 
April 2005. Still some o f our important exportable goods like jute, jute yarn, sacks and bags, t -shirts, 
sweaters, trousers, shorts, etc. are not included in the list.  
4.375.   The private sectors of the two countries are also working together to materialize 
complementarities between the  two economies. These complementarities are likely to be symbiotic, 
combining Bangladesh 's thirst for investment and Thailand 's keenness to expand its market.  
Bangladesh and Thailand have been maintaining a good bilateral trade relation. Bangladesh exporte d 
goods worth USD 35.46 million in 2019 -2020 and imported goods worth USD 801.28 million. Since 
Bangladeshi export to Thailand is insignificantly less than the import, Bangladesh lags behind in 
balance of trade, though trade volume has been increasing stea dily. 
4.376.   Bangladesh and Thailand closely cooperate in different regional forums such as BISMTEC, 
ACD (Asia Cooperation Dialogue), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), Asia –Europe Meeting (ASEM) and 
multilateral forums including UN, WTO and ITU. Bangladesh will, theref ore, continue to promote 
partnership with Thailand to further enhance opportunities, and to work together to address 
economic and security challenges in the years to come. Bangladesh's bilateral relations with Thailand 
are natural and close. We do believe that this strong bond of friendship and mutual cooperation will 
continue to grow in depth and dimension in the days ahead of this two BIMSTEC nations.  
4.377.   Bangladesh has the potential to become an important investment destination for Thai 
investors, especially in the textile, agro -processing, leather, energy and tourism sectors. Thai 
investors can reap benefits by utilizing the low infrastructure cost, compe titive labor and natural gas 
of Bangladesh. Thailand is benefiting greatly as a large number of Bangladeshis travel to Thailand 
for various purposes, particularly trade, health, education and tourism.  
4.378.   Bangladesh wants to express gratitude to its friendly p artner Thailand. In 2019, total Thai 
FDI was USD 33.10 million and the total FDI stock till December 2019 from Thailand was 
USD 275.41  million. Bangladesh delegation wishes fruitful Trade Policy Review of our friendly 
country Thailand and requesting to inc lude jute, jute yarn, sacks and bags, t -shirts, sweaters, 
trousers, and shorts in preferential tariff scheme.  
BRUNEI  DARUSSALAM  
4.379.   Brunei Darussalam associates itself with the statement delivered by Myanmar on behalf of 
ASEAN and would like to add a few words  in our national capacity.  
4.380.   First, let me give a warm welcome to the delegation from Thailand led by Mr. Rachavitch 
Piyapramote, who is appearing here virtually, for the introduction given.  
4.381.   Thank you also to Her Excellency Ambassador Silvia Elena Alfaro Es pinosa of Peru for the 
extensive overview of the reports under consideration.  
4.382.   Since their last review in 2016 Thailand has undergone several changes, from the passing 
of a beloved monarch in 2016, to the enactment of a new Constitution in 2017, and the ho lding of 
a general election in 2019.  
4.383.   During this period, the Thai Government laid out a long -term vision to move from a middle 
income to a high -income country by 2036, called the 20 -Year National Strategy (2018 -2037). This 
is based on a transformation into  a digital economy, and links closely to the economic policies it has 
implemented, namely "Thailand 4.0".  
4.384.   We commend this progressive and timely strategy which targets the utilization of digital 
technology to deal with emerging issues, such as, smart citi es, and the digitalization of the public WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  sector and transport and logistics system, and can already be seen in the implementation of policies 
in Intellectual Property and Small and Medium Enterprises among others.  
4.385.   Having a similar long -term vision ourselv es, this is perhaps another area that 
Brunei  Darussalam and Thailand can work closely together in, in areas of synergy.  
4.386.   Bilaterally, Brunei Darussalam and Thailand already have close ties from the highest level of 
our people -to-people linkages to cooperat ion in agriculture, energy, education, halal, labour, and 
taxation. Thailand is the main provider for Brunei 's rice stock and also exports cement, ceramics, 
rubber products, paper and pulp to us; whilst they import iron and steel from Brunei.  
4.387.   Internationa lly, Thailand is well known for being an active player in the WTO. Ambassador 
Sunanta, the Permanent Representative of Thailand to the WTO, has been the Chair of the Dispute 
Settlement Body in 2018 and of the General Council in 2019. Her team is also activ e in various 
negotiations currently ongoing in these halls from Fisheries subsidies, E -Commerce, and Agriculture 
among other things.  
4.388.   Recently during ASEAN Chairmanship in 2019, Thailand saw the signing of various key 
regional agreements and the finalizati on of the text -based Regional Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership Agreement (RCEP) which was also just signed on 15 November. Also, notably, the 
ASEAN –Hong Kong, China Free Trade Agreement (AHKFTA) entered into force on 11 June 2019 for 
six parties, includi ng Thailand.  
4.389.   It is this commitment to trade liberalization that has seen Thailand 's GDP rise and expand 
in the period under review, albeit at a slower rate in 2019. Its forecasted contraction for 2020 can 
be attributed mainly to the severe impact of the C OVID -19 pandemic which has significantly affected 
all of our economies. As a result, the Thai Government introduced various policies and measures to 
mitigate the impacts, including an economic stimulus package, healthcare spending, and trade and 
investment  related measures which it has assured are temporary.  
4.390.   Nonetheless, Thailand has stated that it continues to believe in a free, predictable, and 
transparent, rules -based multilateral trading system and remains committed to the WTO as a crucial 
mechanism to  address economic challenges resulting from the pandemic and to prepare for post -
pandemic recovery. Brunei Darussalam assures that we too will continue to work with you and other 
WTO Members in this regard.  
4.391.   Lastly , we would like to wish Thailand, and , in particular , Ambassador Sunanta, 
Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote, and team, a successful 8th Trade Policy Review.    
PAKISTAN  
4.392.   Pakistan warmly welcomes the Thai delegation led by His Excellency Rachavitch Piyapramote 
Minister, Permanent Mission of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO in Bangkok. We wish to thank the 
Secretariat for their work in preparing the report. We also wish to thank Ambassador Her Excellency 
Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa of Peru for her introduction and a well -articulated analysis of the Trade 
Policy of Thailand to start our discussion.  
4.393.   We would like to commend Thailand on its various policies and initiatives during the review 
period in the context of improving trade facilitation infrastructure and encouraging support for 
strengthening the multilateral  trading system. In particular, we note that, Thailand has implemented 
more than 97% of its commitments under Trade Facilitation Agreement which is a significant 
achievement.  
4.394.   Chair, Pakistan and Thailand enjoy excellent trading relations. The bilateral tra de between 
both countries was recorded at USD 1.54 billion in 2018 -19 with exports of USD 223 million and 
imports of USD 1.32 billion. The trade balance remained in favour of Thailand. During the review 
period, Pakistan generally exported seafood including  fish and crustaceans, cotton, optical 
apparatus, lead and its articles and other textile articles. Meanwhile, Pakistan imported automotive 
parts, machinery, boilers, plastics articles, rubber articles, organic chemicals and manmade staple 
fibers. Apart fr om trade in goods, Pakistan has also been a big consumer of Thai services, particularly 
Tourism. Thailand remains one of the most popular tourist destinations for Pakistani tourists and WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  prospective businessmen. Keeping in view the strong trade ties between  both countries, in 2015, 
both countries decided to commence negotiations for a bilateral Free Trade Agreement for further 
enhancing trade and economic cooperation.  
4.395.   Given the overall trade and economic cooperation, Pakistan continues to carefully watch the  
developments in Thailand 's Trade Policy, in particular Agriculture policies, tariffs and TRQs,  
4.396.   technical standards, Sanitary and Phytosanitary measures and import licensing regime. We 
are hopeful that these policies will remain consistent with WTO commit ments and obligations and 
will be non -trade restrictive. We also take note of the Thailand 's continued commitment to structural 
reforms, targeted sectoral policies and Regional Trade Agreements and Economic Cooperation.  
4.397.   Pakistan and Thailand enjoy good co operation in all WTO related matters and our Missions 
coordinate on various important matters such as Agriculture, dispute settlement and other systemic 
issues. We are confident that Thailand stands committed, along with the membership, to the cause 
of tra de and sustainable development and upholding a bright future for the multilateral system.  
4.398.   We thank the delegation of Thailand and especially their WTO Mission under the stewardship 
of Ambassador Her Excellency Sunanta Kangvalkulkij for the continued suppor t and cooperation. We 
wish Thailand a very successful and fruitful Trade Policy Review.  
ZIMBABWE  
4.399.   Allow me to warmly welcome the Delegation of Thailand led by His Excellency, Mr. Rachavitch 
Piyapramote and his team here in Geneva, to this 8th Trade Policy R eview. We are grateful to the 
efforts made by Thailand in preparation for this review. We would also like to express our 
appreciation to the Secretariat and the Discussant, Her Excellency, Ambassador Alfaro Espinosa of 
Peru, for their contribution to this review process.  
4.400.   Zimbabwe commends Thailand for showing commitment to the rules -based multilateral 
trading system which provides for stability and sustainability of international economic growth. 
Thailand has maintained macro -financial stability, supported by prudent fiscal and monetary policies. 
These policies have resulted in subdued inflation, relatively low levels of public debt, a sizable current 
account surplus, substantial foreign exchange reserves, and a sound financial system.  
4.401.   Furthermore, we wish to commend Thailand, since its last Review, for improving its customs 
regime and adopting a new Customs Act in 2017, which helped simplify customs procedures and 
improved transparency. In 2015, Thailand ratified the WTO Trade Facilitat ion Agreement and has 
now implemented 97.1% of its commitments. Under the e -Customs system, customs registration, 
declaration and document submission are conducted electronically, and e -declarations now 
represent 100% of import declarations.  
4.402.   We are gratef ul to Thailand that, within the Framework of Thailand Aid Programme (TAP), 
the country has over the years offered Zimbabwean nationals scholarships on an annual basis in 
areas such as community health, nursing, water supply technology, soil management and 
information.  
4.403.   Although the bilateral trade is still relatively small, there is considerable potential in that 
area. Since 2009 to date, Zimbabwe has had negative trade balances with Thailand. Zimbabwe 's 
major exports to Thailand include cotton, edible fruit and nuts; peel of citrus fruit or melons, raw 
hides and skins, iron and steel. Major imports from Thailand are rubber and articles, rice, vehicles, 
as well as vehicle parts and accessories.  
4.404.   The products with greatest export potential from Zimbabwe to  Thailand are ferro-chromium, 
raw hides and skins of crocodiles, and cotton.  
4.405.   Zimbabwe and Thailand signed a Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement 
(BIPPA) and an avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement in February and May 2000, respectively , 
with the objective of boosting investment. Zimbabwe is the process of ratifying the BIPPA.  
4.406.   In conclusion, we wish Thailand a successful Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  NEPAL  
4.407.   First, my delegation would like to welcome the delegation of Thailand under the leadership 
of H.E. Minister Piyapramote and would like to appreciate to him for the comprehensive opening 
remarks delivered this morning.   
4.408.   I would also like to commend H.E. Sunanta, Ambassador of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO 
for her excellent work as the Chair of the  Dispute Settlement Body in 2018 and the General Council 
for the year 2019, and Thailand 's continuous commitment to rule based multilateral trading system 
and contribution towards it.  
4.409.   I wish to congratulate the Government of Thailand for its comprehensive  report and also 
would like to commend the Secretariat for its detailed report of the trade policy review of Thailand.  
4.410.   While going through the reports, it is observed that Thailand has taken remarkable forward 
steps to improve its trade and economic polic ies over the past few years.  
4.411.   Nepal and Thailand have been enjoying cordial relationship in various dimensions of socio -
economic and cultural development since long back. Our friendship has been further strengthened 
after establishing the diplomatic relati on in 1959.  
4.412.   Nepal and Thailand have been bound by commonality of culture and shared values. The 
bilateral relations are marked by strong friendship, goodwill and understanding between the two 
countries.  
4.413.   Such a relationship is not limited to government to  government level but widely expanded 
to business to business as well as people to people level in all aspects of human life.   
4.414.   Buddhism has remained one of the strongest links between the peoples of Nepal and 
Thailand. Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddh a, is one of the most desired destinations in Nepal 
for Thai visitors.  
4.415.   The Thai people and Government have tremendous goodwill towards Lumbini, the birthplace 
of Lord Buddha where the Thai Government has built a Temple of Thai style.  
4.416.   A Joint Commission a t the level of Foreign Secretaries has been established and is functional 
to promote relations and cooperation between the two countries.  
4.417.   Nepal and Thailand have been very cooperative and supportive to each other in regional and 
international forums.  
4.418.   There is warmth of feeling, and common desire, among the peoples of Nepal and Thailand 
to promote economic and commercial relations between the two countries.  
4.419.   Thailand is one of the major trade partners of Nepal particularly in importing goods from 
abroad.  Based on the preliminary data available, Nepal imported various goods from Thailand worth 
of 12.5 billion Nepali rupees in the year 2019. However, Nepal exported to Thailand worth of only 
59.8 million Nepali rupees in the same year.  
4.420.   This shows a huge trade gap between Nepal and Thailand. This also indicates an availability 
of further opportunity to collaborate and work together both in trade and investment areas for our 
mutual benefit.  
4.421.   Nepal wishes to constructively engage to continue our partnership focusi ng on reducing the 
existing trade gap between us and strengthening our relation further.  
4.422.   My delegation wishes for a successful trade policy review of Thailand.  
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  EL SALVADOR  
4.423.   El Salvador se suma a los Miembros que nos han precedido, agradeciendo los esfuerzos del 
Reino de Tailandia y a la delegación encabezada por el ministro Piyapramote y a todos los 
funcionarios tailandeses que nos acompañan este día.  
4.424.   Así mismo, deseamos agr adecer a la Embajadora Alfaro Espinoza del Perú, por sus 
apreciaciones, comentarios y análisis muy pertinentes a este ejercicio, así como a la Secretaría por 
el informe presentado.  
4.425.   Al igual que otros Miembros, la pandemia de la COVID -19 ha afectado los fl ujos de 
mercancías tailandesas producto de la contracción de la demanda externa. De igual forma las 
restricciones a los viajes han resultado en que el flujo constante de turistas a Tailandia se haya casi 
detenido. Como resultado de las medidas fiscales y n o fiscales implementadas para apalear los 
efectos económicos de la crisis, se espera que la economía tailandesa crezca más de 5% para 2021 
reflejando la buena salud de la economía tailandesa producto de sus años de estabilidad 
macroeconómica.  
4.426.   Al igual que El Salvador, Tailandia es parte de un esquema de integración económica. Para 
Tailandia, sus exportaciones a la ASEAN representan casi un cuarto de sus exportaciones totales. En 
el marco de la ASEAN, se han dado importantes pasos en el ámbito de la facilita ción del comercio 
como la ventanilla única de comercio de la ASEAN en 2018. De igual forma la adopción de los 
protocolos que permitirán la creación de un régimen de auto certificación y del proyecto piloto del 
Sistema de Tránsito Aduanero de la ASEAN. Esto s esfuerzos, con el uso de tecnologías de la 
información para facilitar el comercio, permitirán a que Tailandia continúe potenciando su 
crecimiento económico.  
4.427.   Felicitamos a Tailandia por la reciente firma de la Asociación Económica Amplia Regional 
RCEP por  sus siglas en inglés, el cual creará una de las zonas de libre comercio más importantes del 
mundo. El RCEP reducirá más las barreras no arancelarias entre sus miembros mediante la adopción 
de un esquema de reglas de origen común que incluye un certificado  de origen común. Esto facilitará 
la gestión de la cadena de suministros y reduciría los costos de transacción para comerciar pues la 
literatura estima que el costo de las reglas de origen oscila entre el 1,4% y el 5,9%.  
4.428.   Con respecto a nuestra relación bil ateral, en los últimos años, El Salvador ha importado en 
promedio un poco más de USD 97 millones desde Tailandia y ha exportado anualmente un poco más 
de USD 603,000. Entre las principales importaciones salvadoreñas provenientes de Tailandia están 
los vehí culos, máquinas para lavar ropa, e hilados sintéticos. Este comercio depende enteramente 
de las reglas negociadas en esta casa.  
4.429.   Aplaudimos la flexibilidad mostrada por Tailandia y el apoyo que recibió por parte de la 
Secretaría para poder cumplir con este ejercicio y con los trabajos ordinarios de la Organización.  
4.430.   En el plano multilateral, como lo refleja el informe de la Secretaría, Tailandia ha intervenido 
activamente en la labor ordinaria de los Comités de la OMC, las negociaciones, la solución de 
difere ncias, el ejercicio de vigilancia y las iniciativas plurilaterales.  
4.431.   Finalmente quisiera hacer público el agradecimiento de El Salvador a la Embajadora 
Kangvalkulkij por su excelente labor frente al Consejo General, en el periodo anterior, y le deseamos 
a Tailandia éxitos en este examen . 
EGYPT  
4.432.   Egypt joins others in extending a very warm welcome to the esteemed delegation from 
Bangkok, headed by His Excellency Minister Piyapramote. We would also like to offer our sincere 
compliments to Her Excellency Ambassa dor Sunanta who has successfully chaired the General 
Council and Dispute Settlement Body within the last two years.  
4.433.   We thank the Government of Thailand and the WTO Secretariat for their comprehensive 
reports, as well as Her Excellency, Ambassador Silvia El ena Alfaro Espinosa (of Peru) for her 
insightful remarks as discussant.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  4.434.   Egypt wishes to highlight the commendable macroeconomic indicators in the WTO 
Secretariat report that show steady growth rates during the period under review, as well as the 
promising resilience efforts in face of the current socio -economic challenges due to the Covid -19 
pandemic.  
4.435.   Thailand achieved strong annual GDP growth -rates that averaged at 3.4% since 2015, while 
running a considerable current account surplus, maintaining macro -financial stability, in addition to 
restricting inflation and public debt levels. Remarkably, Thailand became an upper -middle income 
country in 2019 after reaching a nominal GDP per capita of almost USD 8000.  
4.436.   Much of this success stems from the outward -orient ed trade policies that Thailand 
implements, given the central role trade plays in the economy. We also note the recently 
implemented policies and actions, including the Covid -19 Relief Package, to help the most vulnerable 
groups in mitigating the adverse i mpacts of the pandemic.  
4.437.   Egypt agrees with the Secretariat 's report with regards to Thailand 's strong commitment and 
active engagement in the Multilateral Trading System. We applaud the improvements in Thailand 's 
customs regime and the continued efforts tow ards the full implementation of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement. We encourage Thailand to more achieve more progress in its economic reform 
endeavors.  
4.438.   Egypt and Thailand enjoy strong relations and friendly ties, particularly on economic and 
commercial fro nts. In this regard, I wish to highlight that since 2015, overall bilateral trade volume 
generally witnessed steady figures. During that period, Egyptian exports to Thailand increased 
almost three -fold, and we believe that there is much untapped potential to further enhance our trade 
relations.  
4.439.   Egypt looks forward to strengthening bilateral cooperation between both countries, 
particularly through advancing our commercial and investment relations, to mutually reinforce 
development priorities in both countrie s. 
4.440.   Finally, Egypt praises Thailand for its impressive overall economic performance in recent 
years and wishes its delegation a fruitful Trade Policy Review.  
INDONESIA  
4.441.   Indonesia would like to welcome the delegation of Thailand, led by Minister, Permanent 
Mission of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO, Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote. Indonesia would also like to 
thank the WTO Secretariat and the delegation of Thailand for their comp rehensive report which 
provides a useful context for exploring Thailand 's trade, trade -related, and its investment policies.  
4.442.   We also extend appreciation to the Discussant, Ambassador Ms. Silvia Elena Alfaro Espinosa 
of Peru, for her contribution to this t rade policy review.  
4.443.   We are pleased to be here today for participating in the Trade Policy Review of Thailand. For 
many years, Indonesia and Thailand share a good relationship, especially within the framework of 
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEA N). 
4.444.   We congratulate the Government of Thailand effort in significantly reducing the spread of 
pandemic within its territory. Nevertheless, we are also empathizing that many of the Thailand 
workers ' in formal sector applied for unemployment benefits and the  job losses are expected to 
increase in this quarter.  
4.445.   In addition, we appreciate Thailand 's valuable contributions in multilateral trading system, 
in particular through the WTO. Thailand representation as the Chair of DSB and General Council, in 
2018 and 2 019 respectively, also shows ASEAN Members countries ' commitment in enhancing 
stability, predictability, and transparency of the MTS.  
4.446.   In 2019, Thailand was the 19th largest exporter and 17th largest importer of goods in the 
world. Thailand is also a regula r producer and important exporter of several agricultural products, WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  such as natural rubber. Thailand's economy is also diversified with the services and industrial sectors 
being the main contributors to GDP and exports.  
4.447.   Based on the size and proximity of Indonesia and Thailand, there are still rooms for 
improvement in trade relations. Over the period 2015 -2018, the total of bilateral trade continued to 
show an increase and reached USD 17.7 billion. However, in 2019, the total trade was recorded at 
USD 15.6  billion or an 11.8% decrease from the previous year. Indonesia's trade balance to Thailand 
is also quite fluctuated and showed a deficit, with the highest deficit in the past five years accounted 
to USD 4.13 billion in 2018.  
4.448.   Please allow us to underline some of our interest and concerns on trade and trade related 
policies and practices of Thailand, which are also reflected in our written questions.  
4.449.   First, regarding import measures. Indonesia is interested to know more about the changes 
of Indust rial Products Standards Act in 2019, especially about the mandatory standards by 
ministerial regulation and its effects on the importation of goods. As a country whose economic 
growth is supported by the agricultural sector, we encourage Thailand to guaran tee transparency 
including on the special safeguard provisions and ensure that there is no quantitative restriction.  
4.450.   The Secretariat notes that the low quota fill rates for certain products due to imported under 
FTAs and from ASEAN countries. This issue wa s also questioned by Indonesia in the WTO Committee 
on Agriculture. In 2018, instant coffee from Indonesia was subjected to tariff rate quota (TRQ) which 
should not be imposed based on the ATIGA scheme. To that extend, Indonesia asks Thailand to 
provide th e implementation and utilization tariff - and quota -free access under the ATIGA and will 
review it regularly.  
4.451.   Second, regarding sectoral policy. As noted in the reports prepared for this Review, there 
are mandatory requirements for imported goods transporte d by Thai -flagged vessels. Within 
fisheries sector, Indonesia needs clarification from Thailand on a ban or cancellation of shrimp import 
license from Indonesia due to domestic production could fulfil domestic demand.  
4.452.   In addition, Indonesia also seeks a cl arification and explanation regarding FinTech and its 
competition policy, non -preferential rules of origin, a mandatory of certification mark, and the 
opportunities on doing business construction in Thailand.  
4.453.   Indonesia believes that, through this Trade Pol icy Review, can be positively addressed by 
Thailand delegation. In this regard, we look forward to a follow -up communication with the 
delegation of Thailand for further written clarification on our interest and concerns.  
4.454.   Finally, we would like to conclude our remarks by expressing, once again, our profound 
appreciation to the delegation of Thailand for their hard work. Indonesia wishes Thailand every 
success in its eighth Trade Policy Review.  
ARGENTINA  
4.455.   Quisiéramos asociarnos a los Miembros que han dado la bienvenida a la delegación 
tailandesa. Agradecemos asimismo los informes preparados por Tailandia y la Secretaría.  
4.456.   La Argentina observa con beneplácito que, desde su último examen de las políticas 
comerciales en 2016, Tailandia haya logrado mantener una ma croeconomía sólida y crecer a una 
tasa media anual del 3,4% para el período 2015 -2019.  
4.457.   A pesar de este buen desempeño, Tailandia y el resto de los Miembros de esta casa nos 
hemos visto afectados por la pandemia que es de público conocimiento. Esta ha sido particularmente 
dura con el sector del turismo en Tailandia, que desempeña un rol central en su economía y 
constituye una importante fuente de divisas. La Argentina apoya los esfuerzos del Gobierno tailandés 
para proteger a los hogares y empresas más afect adas mediante transferencias de efectivo, 
préstamos a condiciones favorables y medidas de desgravación fiscal.  
4.458.   Quisiéramos aprovechar esta oportunidad para felicitar a Tailandia por los cambios 
introducidos a su régimen aduanero, y en particular por la ado pción de una nueva Ley de Aduanas WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  en 2017. Vemos con buenos ojos el hecho de que Tailandia haya sido uno de los Miembros que 
ratificó tempranamente el Acuerdo sobre Facilitación del Comercio de la OMC en 2015, además de 
haber puesto en marcha la casi total idad de sus compromisos.  
4.459.   Por último, y en lo que concierne específicamente a las Subvenciones a la Pesca, deseamos 
destacar la adopción de medidas para hacer frente a la Pesca Ilegal, No Declarada y No 
Reglamentada (Pesca INDNR). Estamos convencidos de que  este tipo de esfuerzos van en la 
dirección correcta y nos acercan, de manera progresiva pero segura, a un resultado en materia de 
Subvenciones a la Pesca en la próxima Conferencia Ministerial.  
4.460.   Para concluir, no quisiera dejar de reiterar, una vez más, nu estro agradecimiento por esta 
oportunidad de abordar las prácticas comerciales de Tailandia.  
4.461.   Deseamos a sus autoridades la exitosa conclusión de este Examen.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THAILAND AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  Good morning excellencies and distinguished guests. In this second session of Thailand 's 8th 
Trade Policy Review, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to our Chair, Discussant, and 
all Members for your insightful statements during the first session. We are sincerely thankful for all 
encouragements and commendations for Thailand 's efforts in recovering and strengthening 
Thailand 's economy after the COVID -19 pandemic. Member's suggestions and concerns are an 
invaluable input in our ongoing work to further impr ove our trade policy to tackle new challenges 
and aspirations, while preserving the principles of free trade which has always been at the heart of 
Thailand's trade regime.  
5.2.  So far, Thailand has received more than 600 questions, which we have already respond ed to 
414 questions. With approximately 200 remaining questions, Thailand would like to reaffirm that we 
will answer all questions as soon as we can.  
5.3.  As a follow -up to the first session of Thailand 's Trade Policy Review meeting on Tuesday this 
week, I wou ld like to take this opportunity to provide brief but substantive answers to the 
suggestions and concerns raised by Members during Tuesday 's meeting as follows.  
Trade related measures during the COVID -19 pandemic  
5.4.  Thailand reaffirms its commitment to adopt trade related measures responding to the 
COVID -19 pandemic that are targeted, temporary, appropriate, transparent and consistent with 
WTO obligations. In February 2020, Thailand applied export restriction on bird eggs and surgical 
masks in response to the COVID -19 pandemic. The export restriction on bird eggs was terminated 
in April this year. The export restriction on surgical masks will be terminated on 3 February 2021 as 
stated in the current domestic Notification. Both measures are temporary measures an d were 
introduced as a response to safeguard Thai people's lives and health from the pandemic. The 
measures were notified to the WTO on 2 April 2020 as appears in document 
(G/MA/QR/N/THA/2/Add.3)  
5.5.  Our notification also adheres to the APEC MRT Declaration on Facilitating the Movement of 
Essential Goods. This is a testimony of Thailand's commitment to the principles of the WTO and of 
the multilateral trading system, even in these unusual times.  
5.6.  Speaking of APEC, I would like to take this opportun ity to inform the meeting that Thailand will 
be host economy of APEC in 2022. Thailand will work closely with New Zealand, the host of APEC 
2021, and APEC economies to further strengthen regional cooperation, especially to support the 
MTS. We look forward to hosting the APEC Meetings in 2022.  
Transparency and notification obligations  
5.7.  Thailand attaches great importance on promoting transparency in the WTO which is reflected 
by our records in notification obligations with around 90 percentages of compliance rate in 
merchandise trade. We also notified trade related measures related to the COVID -19 pandemic. 
Furthermore, as mentioned by some Members on Domestic Support notification, we are in the 
process of collecting information and we will notify the WTO once  we receive all the information.  
Improvement of Thailand GATS schedules  
5.8.  Thailand is fully aware of our obligation to take necessary actions to update our Schedule of 
Specific Commitment for telecommunication services under the General Agreement on Trade i n 
Services (GATS) since we have issued the Telecommunication Business Act which has introduced 
the increasing of foreign equity participation, and other new laws and regulations related to the 
Reference Paper.  
5.9.  We are currently in a public hearing stage, a nd the results of public hearings will be presented 
to the cabinet and parliament for their approval. After that, we will proceed with WTO procedures 
for the certification of improvements to schedules of specific commitments.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  TFA implementation  
5.10.   For TFA imp lementation, Thailand appreciates all Members for their commendations on our 
high implementation rate at 97.1%. We will certainly put great efforts to further implement our 
remaining commitments under the TFA in order to better facilitate importers and exp orters and ease 
trade processes.  
Complex Tariff structure  
5.11.   Regarding tariff structure, Thailand revises its tariff structure on a regular basis. If there are 
any circumstances such as changes in economics, trade or investment which make tariff reductions 
deem appropriate or necessary, the tariff structure may be revised accordingly.  
Foreign business liberalization  
5.12.   Thailand understands that foreign investors are concerned with the policy on the amendment 
of List Three annexed to the Foreign Business Act B.E.  2542. We would like to assure that Thailand 
has a coherent policy to promote foreign investment and we will keep working to facilitate foreign 
investors in doing business and remove any obstacles in investing in Thailand.  
5.13.   The Foreign Business Commission r eviews categories of businesses in the lists annexed to the 
Act annually. Since 2013, the Ministry of Commerce has issued 4 ministerial regulations prescribing 
service business not subject to application for foreign business permission covering 40  business  
categories such as securities business under the law on securities and securities exchange, insurance 
business under the law on insurance, financial institution business, and representative office/regional 
office.  
5.14.   To review the regulated businesses under the Foreign Business Act, the regulation 
promulgation process requires that public hearings with stakeholders and sector regulators are held. 
The result based on pros and cons usually requires sufficient information for the Commission to 
remove the regulat ed businesses from the list.  
Securities company inspection  
5.15.   The inspections ' scope for both Thai and Foreign securities companies are in accordance with 
the Notification of the Capital Market Supervisory Board No. 35 in 2003 on Standard Conduct of 
Business,  Management Arrangement, Operating Systems, and Providing Services to Clients of 
Securities Companies and Derivatives Intermediaries. The notification is available on the SEC 's 
website. In summary, it requires public consultations and mechanisms ensuring t hat the rules are 
fair, consistently applied, comprehensible, and transparent to the public. Furthermore, Thailand has 
recently participated in the Financial Sector Assessment Programs (FSAP) conducted by the 
International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World  Bank and received an assessment grade of "Fully 
Implemented " for IOSCO Principle 4 "Clear and consistent regulatory process ". 
WTO/Multilateral Trading System  
5.16.   Thailand reaffirms its commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading system. Our trade 
regime, laws and regulations adhere to the WTO principles and are implemented in a transparent 
and non -discriminatory manner.  
5.17.   In addition, Thailand will work close ly with WTO Members and actively participate in on -going 
discussions including fisheries subsidies, agriculture and e -commerce to achieve a substantial 
outcome for MC12. We also view that there is an urgent need to advance WTO reform and resolve 
the Appell ate Body impasse.  
5.18.   I would like to thank the Chair, the Discussant and all Members again for your interest in 
Thailand 's trade policy, and constructive engagement and valuable contribution during this two -day 
meeting. I would also like to thank the WTO Sec retariat for the excellent Secretariat Report and 
their support throughout Thailand 's TPR process.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  5.19.   In closing, I wish everyone stay safe and healthy through these unusual times. Thank you for 
the floor.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.20.   Thank you, Mr Chair. Good morning or good afternoon, everyone.  
5.21.   I would like to start my second presentation in my capacity as discussant, by expressing my 
satisfaction with the exchanges held to date, including Thailand's second intervention, which was 
aimed at responding to the various questions  raised by the participating delegations. I was able to 
confirm my impression that the present exercise is indeed turning out to be a very useful and 
successful Trade Policy Review.  
5.22.   It is a relatively well -known fact that some South -East Asian economies, including Thailand, 
have been dubbed as "tiger cub economies" due to their similarities with the economic development 
of the original four Asian tigers. This Review has enabled me to understand this concept a little 
better, and to wonder if Thailand is not  perhaps at an important crossroads, on the cusp of soon 
making the leap to eventually become yet another fully developed Asian tiger. I am observing some 
conditions that are conducive to that happening, together with some challenges that I will outline 
briefly.  
5.23.   First, one word kept cropping up over and over last Tuesday: investment. This somewhat odd 
as we are dealing with a Review that deals mainly with trade issues. However, requests to reduce 
red tape surrounding foreign property in some sectors, as well as in terest in finding out about the 
conditions for setting up a new business in the Economic Corridor of the East and requests for Thai 
investment in other countries clearly demonstrate that WTO Members believe in Thailand's growth, 
and in the possibility of d oing business with, in and from Thailand. It is normal that this interest in 
investment to and from Thailand should reveal a yet undivulged margin of potential economic growth 
that could come to fruition if certain barriers are overcome and certain key ele ments are maintained, 
such as political and macroeconomic stability, the rule of law and a strong financial sector.  
5.24.   Second, the policy of regional trade agreements and preferential integration seems to have 
had a favourable impact on Thailand's image as a  partner with whom business and investment can 
be done. In other words, a partner with whom rules -based mutual economic growth can be achieved. 
On the first day of this Review, several references were made to the Regional Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership  (RCEP), agreements between the Association of South -East Asian Nations 
(ASEAN) and various Members of this Organization, and to the negotiation of bilateral trade 
agreements either underway or already concluded. One can infer from these references an 
acknowledgement that these agreements are valuable instruments underpinned by an aspiration to 
be more closely associated with and develop special cooperation with the Thai Government with a 
view to achieving mutually beneficial trade and investment. The chall enge for Thailand, on the one 
hand, is to seize the opportunities that are being opened up thanks to those agreements and, to 
complement that, allow the other parties to benefit from them in concrete terms, striking the right 
balance that would allow partn ers to maintain their perception of Thailand as a fair and open partner. 
On the other hand, it is important to note that the interest in developing trade with Thailand is not 
limited only to those trading partners with whom it has concluded or is negotiati ng preferential trade 
agreements, but that it is also being expressed by various governments whose trade relations with 
Thailand are covered by WTO legal instruments. That is why it is crucial for Thailand's important 
participation in this Organization to be maintained, as has been recognized by the 40 or so 
delegations that took the floor last Tuesday, representing countries from all regions.  
5.25.   Third, Thailand's strategic economic plan has elicited several positive comments from the 
Members and no substanti al criticism to speak of. That is why this plan and attendant objectives 
have received, in my view, the preliminary green light. The real challenge will be to ensure effective 
implementation of the plan, both in terms of honouring Thailand's different inte rnational 
commitments, and in terms of paying due attention to all aspects of sustainable development while 
implementing the plan. These include the social aspect: fostering social equality, which could be 
linked to micro, small and medium -sized enterprise s and women's economic empowerment; and the 
environmental aspect: respect for ecosystems and biodiversity and combating climate change.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  5.26.   Fourth, the Members of this Organization have proposed to scale up certain developments in 
Thailand's economic and trad e policy. Trade facilitation, making it easier to do business, continued 
customs reforms, simplification and liberalization of the tariff structure, opening up of the 
government procurement system, and protection of intellectual property rights, inter alia , are areas 
of Thailand's economic policy on which participating delegations have noted positive developments 
during the present Review while also noting that there is some room for improvement.  
5.27.   Thailand has informed us that it has taken significant measu res to tackle the economic 
slowdown caused by the COVID -19 pandemic, but perhaps it can do even more during this peculiar 
period. As a famous politician once said, "Never let a good crisis go to waste ". Therefore, the current 
context could be an opportunit y to do an in -depth analysis of the comments that have emerged 
during the present Review with a view to pursuing positive developments and channeling efforts to 
build back better.  
5.28.   These are the four salient points which have emerged from this Review, in m y view, and which 
present both opportunities and challenges on Thailand's road to becoming an Asian tiger on its own 
merit. The only thing I have to add, to paraphrase a delegation which took the floor last Tuesday, is 
that, as Thailand works towards achie ving its objective of becoming a developed economy, it will 
also have to assume greater responsibility on the international scene by seeking the stability and 
prosperity of the region and promoting a fair and sustainable international system for all. Thank  you. 
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.29.   On behalf of the EU, let me first thank Thailand for the comprehensive overview presented 
last Tuesday of the main trade and economic developments that occurred during the review period.  
5.30.   The EU welcomes the useful insights that this re view has provided into Thailand 's ongoing 
and planned policies and initiatives to foster economic growth, enhance its integration in global 
supply chains, and strengthen its regulatory environment.  
5.31.   The EU hopes that its comments, and those by other Members , will support Thailand in further 
reviewing and reforming its trade and economic policies, addressing the challenges highlighted in 
the interventions delivered on Tuesday.  
5.32.   In this respect, the EU would underline in particular the importance of lifting res trictions to 
foreign participation in the Thai services, investment and public procurement markets; as well as 
the key contribution that enhanced transparency and stakeholders ' involvement in the design, 
implementation and enforcement of trade measures wou ld play for the establishment of a more 
attractive business environment in Thailand.  
5.33.   The EU would like to thank the delegation of Thailand for undergoing this important 
transparency exercise in a virtual format and despite of challenging circumstances, thu s 
demonstrating Thailand 's commitment to the WTO, as was noted by several Members during this 
review. EU is confident that our good cooperation will continue and will contribute to a sustainable 
socio-economic recovery from the pandemic and to economic gro wth. 
UNITED  STATES  
5.34.   The United States thanks Thailand and the Secretariat for their efforts in conducting this Trade 
Policy Review, particularly under the difficult circumstances related to the pandemic.  
5.35.   We have benefited from the exchange of views provide d by the Review, which have 
highlighted the accomplishments and progress made by Thailand since its last Review, and also 
provided an opportunity for Members to raise ongoing concerns with current Thai trade practices.  
5.36.   The United States mentioned, in our r emarks on Day 1, the longstanding and deep relationship 
between the United States and Thailand, one that extends well beyond trade relations. We look 
forward to continuing to strengthen our important relationship through our bilateral and regional 
dialogue  mechanisms and cooperation here at the WTO.  WT/TPR/W/ 181 • Thailand  
 
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  5.37.   We would like to reiterate our desire to see deeper reforms put in place in Thailand 's customs 
practices, particularly with respect to operation of Thai customs penalty regimes.  
5.38.   We look forward to close cooper ation with Thailand in the Trade Facilitation Committee in this 
regard.  
5.39.   Once again, we request Thailand to update its GATS schedule to reflect the current level of 
market access provided in the telecommunications sector, consistent with the commitment Thai land 
made in 1997. We appreciate the update we received this morning on domestic steps being taken 
in this regard.  
5.40.   We would like to request that Thailand provide an update at the upcoming Council on Trade 
and Services meeting, if there are any updates.  
5.41.   We will continue to engage Thailand 's representatives here in Geneva and in Bangkok to 
further our efforts to resolve our concerns regarding Thailand 's regime for agricultural products and 
SPS measures.  
5.42.   We highlighted import fees and approval proc esses in Day 1, and reiterate our interest in 
receiving more information from Thai officials regarding our questions.  
5.43.   Unfortunately, we must also take the opportunity of our Day 2 statement to, once again, 
express our strong disappointment that over half t he questions posed to Thailand by the United 
States, as an integral part of this Review, have gone unanswered. Our participation in this Review 
with one of our most important trading partners has been severely limited by this fact.  
5.44.   The United States observ ed the alternative timeline schedule requested by Thailand, a 
timeline that provided additional time for Thailand to respond to Members ' advance written 
questions. We did so on the understanding that we would receive responses in accordance with that 
timeline and would have been able to utilize those responses to enhance our engagement in the 
review process. Without those responses, not only have we been unable to engage in the review 
process to the fullest extent, we have also been denied an opportunity to  pose important follow -up 
questions. We reiterate our expectation that all of our written questions will receive responses.  
5.45.   Once again, we thank the delegation of Thailand for their participation in this Review, and we 
thank the Secretariat and the Discuss ant for their valuable support and insights.  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
5.46.   The United Kingdom would like to reiterate its appreciation for Thailand 's constructive 
engagement with this Trade Policy Review. We would also like to join other delegations in welcoming 
Thailand 's active participation in the Joint Initiatives on E -commerce and Services Domestic 
Regulation.  
5.47.   We thank Thailand for providing timely answers to the questions raised by the United Kingdom 
in advance of this meeting.  
5.48.   We have now submitted some fol low-up questions for Thailand relating to labelling and 
advertising of alcoholic beverages and have requested some further information in relation to 
Thailand 's mandatory registration system for government procurement.  
5.49.   We look forward to receiving answers to these follow -up questions in due course and the 
United Kingdom sends its best wishes to Thailand for a successful trade policy review.  
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The eighth Trade Policy Review of Thailand has offered us a good opportunity t o deepen our 
understanding of recent developments in, and challenges to, its trade, economic, and investment 
policies; this has been achieved despite the constraints posed by the COVID -19 pandemic on the 
preparation of the reports and on our deliberations.  Our discussion has clearly benefited from the 
active participation of the Thai delegation, led by Mr. Rachavitch Piyapramote, Minister, Permanent 
Mission of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO, Bangkok Office, who participated from Bangkok. I would 
like to thank  H.E. Ambassador Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Permanent Representative of Thailand to the 
WTO, and her team for their work and cooperation in the preparation of this Review. I would also 
like to express my appreciation to our discussant H.E.  Ambassador Silvia El ena Alfaro Espinosa of 
Peru for her insightful remarks, and to the 44 delegations that took the floor for their valuable 
contributions.  Thailand responded to two -thirds of around 600 written questions posed by Members; 
some Members noted that even though t heir questions were submitted within the stipulated 
deadline, some have not been answered. They look forward to receiving replies to outstanding 
questions as soon as possible.  
6.2.  Members commended Thailand's economic performance during the review period, wit h an 
average annual GDP growth rate of 3.4% between 2015 and 2019. However, they also expressed 
concern about the slowdown of the economy from 2019, and the extraordinary difficulties caused by 
the COVID -19 pandemic in 2020. Some Members acknowledged that Thailand's balanced fiscal 
situation allowed it to swiftly adopt measures to provide relief after the onset of the crisis.  
6.3.  Members noted the challenges facing the economy, such as the need to improve income and 
regional disparities and to boost the low levels of public and private investment. They welcomed 
Thailand's reform initiatives, in particular the "Thailand 4.0" and the  Eastern Economic Corridor 
(EEC) projects. Members appreciated Thailand's efforts to enact new, and amend existing 
trade -related legislation,  including the Anti -Dumping and Countervailing Act, the Industrial Products 
Standards Act, the Public Procurement a nd Supplies Administration Act, and the Trade Competition 
Act, among others. On the other hand, some Members pointed out that Thailand's Foreign Business 
Act is still restrictive, and that applying for a foreign business license can be a bureaucratic and 
lengthy process.  
6.4.  Members commended Thailand's strong commitment to the multilateral trading system, and 
welcomed its contribution to advance WTO reform. The delegation of Thailand recalled that it had 
tabled a proposal on the dispute settlement system to f acilitate discussions and resolve the Appellate 
Body impasse. Many Members appreciated the leadership role played by Thailand's Ambassador and 
Permanent Representative to the WTO and WIPO, who served as Chair of the Dispute Settlement 
Body and the General Council in 2018 and 2019, respectively. Members congratulated Thailand for 
the ratification of  the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2015, the acceptance of the Protocol 
Amending the TRIPS Agreement in 2016, and for its participation in the expansion of the Information 
Technology Agreement and the Joint Statement Initiative on e -Commerce. They also welcomed 
Thailand's recent announcement that it will join the Services Domestic Regulation Joint Statement 
Initiative, and encouraged Thailand to participate i n the Joint Statement Initiative on investment 
facilitation. Members acknowledged Thailand's support for the WTO Working Group on Micro, Small 
and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), highlighting the importance of MSMEs in COVID -19 recovery. 
Some Members also welc omed Thailand's support in developing a Framework for Negotiations in 
Domestic Support in agriculture.  
6.5.  Members referred to Thailand's economic integration agenda within the ASEAN, and with other 
economic partners through the conclusion of RTAs. Many welco med the Regional Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership (RCEP), signed on 15 November 2020, and were interested in learning more 
about the agreement's scope.  
6.6.  Referring to specific trade policies, many Members appreciated the adoption of the new 
Customs Act, wh ich helped simplify customs procedures and improve transparency. Some Members 
remain concerned about the penalty regime and the commission payments under this Act, and 
enquired about plans to enact further customs reforms. Members urged Thailand to simplif y its tariff 
structure, which was seen as relatively complex. Some Members noted the significant gap between 
bound and applied rates, the extensive use of non -ad valorem  rates, and the few cases where applied 
rates exceed bound rates. Some Members apprecia ted that Thailand is revising its tariff quota 
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  agricultural products, and looked forward to seeing the implementation of the revised system. Some 
Members pointed  out that Thailand applies import licensing and other requirements on various 
products, and encouraged further relaxation of these measures.  
6.7.  Some Members were interested to know more about mandatory standards and their effects on 
the importation of goods.  Some have raised specific trade concerns on SPS measures maintained by 
Thailand at the WTO SPS Committee. Members noted with concern Thailand's export ban on surgical 
masks, which are essential to fight the pandemic. Some Members noted Thailand's targeted  
initiatives in specific economic sectors or geographical zones, through the use of investment 
incentives, and called on Thailand to simplify and broaden them to all sectors.  
6.8.  Some Members recognized that Thailand is an observer to the WTO Government Procu rement 
Agreement, and has included provisions on cooperation and information sharing in some of its FTAs. 
They encouraged Thailand to consider expanding these obligations to cover market access 
commitments. Thailand was invited to open its procurement mark et to foreign suppliers, and to 
ensure transparency, non -discrimination, competition and fairness in government procurement 
processes. Many Members applauded efforts by Thailand to strengthen IPR protection, including 
through the amendment to its Trademark  and Copyright Acts. Members congratulated Thailand's 
recent accession to the WIPO's Madrid Protocol and the Marrakesh Treaty, and supported Thailand's 
continuing efforts to accede to other WIPO instruments.  
6.9.  A number of delegations pointed out that agricul ture receives more trade protection than the 
rest of the economy, with the average tariff on agricultural products being much higher than on 
non-agricultural products. It was also noted that import and export restrictions, as well as import 
surcharges, app ly to agricultural products. Members encouraged Thailand to further liberalize its 
agriculture sector by reviewing its existing market access measures, and to use ad-valorem  tariffs 
to increase transparency. Members noted that Thailand's latest notificatio n on domestic support to 
agriculture covers only up to 2016, and urged Thailand to submit more up -to-date notifications. 
Many appreciated Thailand's efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and 
welcomed Thailand's active partici pation in the WTO fisheries subsidies negotiations, particularly as 
a significant producer through marine capture fishing.  
6.10.   It was acknowledged that services remain the main contributor to Thailand's economy and 
account for a significant share of GDP and e mployment. Members appreciated Thailand's steps in 
relaxing foreign equity restrictions for some services sectors, and encouraged Thailand to revise its 
GATS schedule to reflect them. Members also encouraged Thailand to consider further liberalizing 
its investment regime in the services sector to attract foreign investment. On financial services, 
Members acknowledged Thailand's effort to remove banking and insurance businesses from the list 
of activities where foreign investment is restricted, and encourage d it to pursue the liberalization of 
these services. Some noted that Thailand has undertaken commitments for international maritime 
transport services under the GATS, and questioned whether Thailand's practice to reserve the 
transportation of government ca rgos to Thai -flagged vessels is in conformity with such 
commitments.  
6.11.   The above are some of the key issues that emerged from our discussion. I hope that the Thai 
delegation will take into account and further reflect on these issues and on the many construc tive 
comments, both broad and detailed, that it has received during this Review. Members look forward 
to receiving written answers from Thailand to any outstanding questions or follow -up questions 
within one month, at which point the Review will be success fully concluded.  
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  7  ADOPTION OF TPRB'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2020  
CHAIRPERSON  
7.1.  I would now like to ask delegations to consider the TPRB's Annual Report for 2020, which was 
initially distributed on 9 October 2020 in document WT/TPR/W/179, and its revised version,  in which 
the Secretariat has incorporated comments from one delegation, was distributed on 23 October 2020 
in document WT/TPR/W/179/Rev.1. I trust that this revised version could be considered the final 
one. 
7.2.  The floor is now open if any delegation would l ike to speak. Otherwise, I propose the adoption 
of the Annual Report as contained in document WT/TPR/W/179/Rev.1.  
7.3.  With this, I declare the meeting closed. I thank you all for your participation and please note 
that the next meeting of the Trade Policy Revi ew Body will be held on 9 and 11 December, when the 
TPRB will discuss the TPR of Indonesia.  
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